superstructure

 
Pronunciation: /ˈsuːpəstrʌktʃə, ˈsjuː-/

noun

  • a structure built on top of something else.
  • the parts of a ship, other than masts and rigging, built above its hull and main deck.
  • the part of a building above its foundations.
  • a concept or idea based on others: a distinction between foundations and superstructure, basic and non-basic beliefs, is central
  • (in Marxist theory) the institutions and culture considered to result from or reflect the economic system underlying a society.

Derivatives

superstructural

adjective