surnaturelle

Surnaturelle is the feminine form of the French adjective surnaturel and is used to describe phenomena, beings, or claims that exceed the natural world. In ordinary use, the term signals that something lies beyond what is currently explainable by natural science, while remaining framed within a belief system or narrative in which such phenomena are possible. The noun phrase is often accompanied by the appropriate gender agreement, as in phénomènes surnaturels or manifestations surnaturelles.

Etymology: the word derives from Late Latin supernaturalis, from super- “above” and natura “nature.” The modern French term reflects centuries of usage that center on events or entities considered to transcend nature.

Usage and scope: the supernatural encompasses miracles, gods or spirits, angels, demons, magic, and other events attributed to forces beyond the ordinary. It is distinguished from the paranormal, which is often discussed in empirical or investigative contexts, though there is overlap in popular discourse. In theology and philosophy, discussions of the supernatural address questions about the possibility of divine action, causation, and the nature of miracles.

In culture: the supernatural has been central to myth, religion, folklore, and literature, from medieval saints and folktales to Gothic novels and modern fantasy. French-language media and criticism frequently categorize works as depicting the supernatural or engaging with supernatural themes, sometimes using the term as a genre label.

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