Fictional characters with extraordinary powers who use them to fight crime and save people.
From 'super-' (Latin for above or beyond) and 'hero' (from Greek 'heros'). The word 'superhero' was created in the 20th century as comics became popular, combining super with an ancient concept.
The modern superhero archetype exploded with comics in the 1930s-40s, but the pattern of powerful heroes helping humans goes back to ancient myths like Heracles and Gilgamesh.
Comic book and media tradition historically centered male characters as default 'heroes'; female characters marginalized as sidekicks or love interests until recent decades. 'Superhero' absorbed male-as-default framing.
Use inclusively; ensure representation in discussion includes female, non-binary, and diverse-identity heroes. Word itself is neutral if usage is intentional.
Women created and wrote superhero narratives (e.g., Wonder Woman by William Moulton Marston and artist H.G. Peter in 1941); contemporary female creators expand the genre.
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