Superscript

usgb/ˈsuːpərskrɪpt/
noun

A number or letter above the normal line of text, often used in scientific or mathematical expressions.

In mathematics, an exponent is written as a superscript.
Visual representation of "superscript" - A number or letter above the normal line of text, often used in scientific or mathematical expressions.

Often appears as...

  • superscript number
  • superscript character

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "superscript"
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Math & Science

Superscript is especially common in scientific formulas and mathematical expressions.

Illustration for Math & Science
E=mc^2, where '2' is in superscript.
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Not For Emphasis

Superscript isn't used for emphasizing text; that's what bold or italics are for.

Illustration for Not For Emphasis
Do not write 'very' as 'very', use bold or italics instead.
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Ordinals In Text

Use superscript for ordinal indicators in dates and numbers in non-technical writing.

Illustration for Ordinals In Text
She was born on January 1^st^ and he on the 2^nd^.
Visual representation of the word "Superscript"

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