WordLens

above

1 of 4preposition
/əˈbʌv/
1

to or at higher position without direct contact

A1
  • The kite soared high above the treetops.
  • We watched fireworks explode above the city skyline.
  • The birds flew gracefully above the river.
  • The plane is passing above the city.
  • The hot air balloon floated gently above the landscape.
Synonyms:
over
2

used to indicate a higher position or status in terms of rank, authority, or hierarchy

  • She ranks above him in the company.
  • He was promoted to a position above mine.
  • Their team is two places above ours in the standings.
  • This candidate is clearly above the others in experience.
  • The captain is ranked above the lieutenant in the military structure.
Synonyms:
over
3

too good for or of greater worth, dignity, or moral standard

  • He thinks he's above manual labor.
  • The judge insisted that no one is above the law.
  • She acted as if she were above such petty arguments.
  • They believe their company is above unethical practices.
  • He's not above bending the rules to win.
Antonyms:
belowbeneath
4

used to express a preference or choice in favor of one option over another

  • They placed profit above public safety.
  • She chose loyalty above ambition.
  • Honesty should come above convenience.
  • They prioritized comfort above appearance.
  • Family always stands above fame for him.
Synonyms:
beforeover
5

at a louder volume, higher pitch, or more prominent sound level than others

  • Her voice rose above the chatter of the crowd.
  • The siren wailed above the traffic noise.
  • Music played faintly above the murmur of conversation.
  • He shouted above the roar of the engines.
  • Their laughter rang out above the din.
6

greater than a specified number, rate, or standard

  • The cabin sits 2,000 meters above sea level.
  • Children above the age of five must have a ticket.
  • Temperatures stayed above freezing all week.
  • The company reported earnings above expectations.
  • Her score was well above the class average.
7

(in theater) located farther toward the back of the stage from the audience's perspective

  • The actor positioned himself above the rest of the cast.
  • They arranged the set pieces above the main playing area.
  • He moved above the central action to deliver his monologue.
  • The choir was placed above the orchestra onstage.
  • The backdrop was painted to appear above the actors.
Synonyms:
upstage