supervision

noun

su·​per·​vi·​sion ˌsü-pər-ˈvi-zhən How to pronounce supervision (audio)
Synonyms of supervisionnext
: the action, process, or occupation of supervising
especially : a critical watching and directing (as of activities or a course of action)

Synonyms of supervision

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Examples of supervision in a Sentence

Young children need constant supervision. She's responsible for the supervision of a large staff.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Princeton University dropped its over century-old Honor Code tradition which let students take their exams without supervision, after an AI cheating scandal rattled the Ivy League institution. — Frank Landymore, Futurism, 13 Aug. 2026 Ban parole and mandatory supervision before at least 10 years are served. — Mateo Rosiles, USA Today, 13 Aug. 2026 As a way to maintain safety and security procedures, Indian Prairie School District 204 is adding new positions at its high schools geared toward providing building coverage and supervision after school is dismissed for the day. — Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 13 Aug. 2026 The new musical will feature a book by Leah Nanako Winkler and music supervision, vocal, and incidental music arrangements by Or Matias. — Greg Evans, Deadline, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for supervision

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of supervision was in the 15th century

Rhymes for supervision

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Browse Nearby Words

supervisee
supervision
supervisor
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Cite this Entry

“Supervision.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/supervision. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

supervision

noun
su·​per·​vi·​sion ˌsü-pər-ˈvizh-ən How to pronounce supervision (audio)
: the act of supervising
especially : a critical watching and directing (as of activities)

More from Merriam-Webster on supervision

Nglish: Translation of supervision for Spanish Speakers

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