Meaning & Definition of word "Transcendental"

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    Transcendental

    /ˌtræn.sənˈdɛn.təl/

    adjective:

    • 1. Relating to a concept that goes beyond the limits of ordinary experience.
      • Example: The philosopher explored transcendental ideas that challenged the very nature of existence.
    • 2. Involving a relation to or deduction from intuition or immediate experience.
      • Example: Her views on art were transcendental, emphasizing the spiritual connection to creativity.
    • 3. Pertaining to the a priori or inherent structures of experience as discussed in Kantian philosophy.
      • Example: Kant's transcendental philosophy redefined the foundations of epistemology.
    • 4. In mathematics, relating to the concept of numbers that cannot be expressed as a root of any non-zero polynomial equation with rational coefficients.
      • Example: Pi is a transcendental number, meaning it cannot be expressed as a fraction.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'transcendentalis', from 'transcendere' meaning 'to climb over, to transcend'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    transcendental meditation:

    A form of meditation aimed at achieving a heightened state of awareness.

    transcendental philosophy:

    A branch of philosophy focused on the fundamental nature of reality and existence.

    transcendental numbers:

    Numbers that are not roots of any non-zero polynomial equation with rational coefficients.

    Related Words

    transcend:

    To go beyond the limits of; to surpass.

    transcendency:

    The quality of being transcendental.

    Slang Meanings of transcendental

    Meaning: Out of this world.

    Example Sentence: That concert was transcendental!

    Meaning: Spiritual high.

    Example Sentence: After yoga, I felt completely transcendental.