ˌsuperinˈtendence
Also 7–9 -ance.
[Formed as next: see -ence. Cf. obs. F. superintendance (mod.F. surintendance), It. sopr(a)intendenza, Sp., Pg. superintendencia.]
1. The function or occupation of a superintendent; the action or work of superintending.
| 1603 Holland Plutarch's Mor. 1312 Eudoxus..asked the reason, why Ceres had no charge and superintendance over Love matters. a 1665 J. Goodwin Being filled with the Spirit (1867) 83 They do it by virtue of a certain superintendence and instigation of the Spirit of God. 1779 Mirror No. 25 ¶3, I was just returning from the superintendence of my plows in a field. 1814 Scott Wav. iii, Had his father placed him under the superintendence of a permanent tutor. 1867 Ruskin Time & Tide ii. §8 To occupy themselves in the superintendence of public institutions. 1876 Encycl. Brit. V. 668/2 The..intendant of circuit, who has a direct general superintendence over all the affairs of the circuit. |
† 2. A body of superintendents of the Church of Scotland. Obs.
| a 1578 Lindesay (Pitscottie) Chron. Scot. II. 232 The maist pairt of the vniuersitie of Sanctandros convenit with the haill ministeris and superintendence in Edinburgh. |