Meaning & Definition of word "Transcendental"

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.