Zods

Zods is a term most often encountered as a surname or title within DC Comics, where it refers to Kryptonian figures associated with military leadership and the ruling class. The best-known bearer is General Zod, a Kryptonian commander who features as a recurring antagonist to Superman. The name Zod has been used across comic books, animated series, and live-action adaptations to denote authority, rebellion, or leadership within Krypton’s elite.

Origin and usage in fiction: In-universe, Zod is portrayed as a Kryptonian family name linked to military power and, at times, a rigid interpretation of Kryptonian law and order. Different storylines portray Zods as individuals or as a faction within Krypton, sometimes opposing Superman and Earth’s inhabitants or acting as agents of Krypton’s political hierarchy. The plural form, Zods, is used informally to refer to multiple characters bearing the surname or to factions associated with Kryptonian leadership depending on the narrative.

In popular culture: General Zod’s most prominent appearances include the film Superman II (1980) and the reboot Man of Steel (2013), where portrayals emphasize his devotion to Krypton and opposition to Earthman ideals. The character’s notoriety has influenced portrayals of authoritarian antagonists in superhero media and has been referenced or reimagined in various fan works and adaptations.

Outside DC Comics, Zods is not widely used as a real-world term. When encountered, it generally refers back to the fictional Kryptonian context or is used as a proper noun within related media.