superstructure

noun

su·​per·​struc·​ture ˈsü-pər-ˌstrək-chər 

1

a

: an entity, concept, or complex based on a more fundamental one

b

: social institutions (such as the law or politics) that are in Marxist theory erected upon the economic base

2

: a structure built as a vertical extension of something else: such as

a

: all of a building above the basement

b

: the structural part of a ship above the main deck

superstructural

ˌsü-pər-ˈstrək-chə-rəl 

-ˈstrək-shrəl

adjective

Examples of superstructure in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

All models will come in two variants: The Coupé features a long, curved superstructure and a roof that slides open at the touch of a button to reveal a sundeck with a jacuzzi and bar, while the Raised Pilot House (RPH) version showcases a large flybridge and spacious living areas. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 26 Sep. 2024

Ice Bear By The Numbers Built with a steel hull, an aluminum superstructure, and teak decking, Ice Bear measures 170.6 feet (52 meters) in length with a 30.5 foot (9.6 meter) beam, weighing in at 614 GT. —Kathleen Turner, Forbes, 21 Sep. 2024

Designed by the Dutch masters at Dykstra Naval Architecture, the boat is distinguished by its towering navy-blue steel hull, snowy-white, two-level aluminum superstructure, sweeping canoe stern, and a trio of soaring masts. —Howard Walker, Robb Report, 9 Sep. 2024

The photovoltaic technology uses efficient, shock-resistant, flexible, and ultra-thin solar panels integrated in the yacht’s composite structure, including the hull, mast, superstructure, bow terrace, and bimini roof. —Julia Zaltzman, Robb Report, 19 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1626, in the meaning defined at sense 1a