sup

Represents superscript text, typically displayed higher and smaller.

Description

The <sup> element specifies inline text which should be displayed as superscript for solely typographical reasons. Superscripts are typically rendered with a raised baseline using smaller text. Common uses include exponents in mathematical expressions, ordinal numbers (like 1st, 2nd), footnote references, and trademark/registered symbols.

Use <sup> only for typographical conventions, not for purely presentational purposes. For styling purposes, use CSS (vertical-align: super).

Basic Example

E = mc2

<p>E = mc<sup>2</sup></p>

Mathematical Exponents

Superscripts are essential for mathematical notation:

The area of a circle is A = πr2, where r is the radius.

<p> The area of a circle is <var>A</var> = <var>π</var><var>r</var><sup>2</sup>, where <var>r</var> is the radius. </p>

Ordinal Numbers

Superscripts for ordinal indicators:

The 1st place winner will receive a gold medal, the 2nd place a silver, and 3rd place a bronze.

<p> The 1<sup>st</sup> place winner will receive a gold medal, the 2<sup>nd</sup> place a silver, and 3<sup>rd</sup> place a bronze. </p>

Footnote References

Superscripts are commonly used for footnote and citation references:

According to recent studies[1], this approach is more effective[2].

<p> According to recent studies<sup><a href="#ref1">[1]</a></sup>, this approach is more effective<sup><a href="#ref2">[2]</a></sup>. </p>

Trademark Symbols

Trademark and registered symbols are often superscripted:

Welcome to Awesome ProductTM — the best solution® for your needs.

<p> Welcome to Awesome Product<sup>TM</sup> — the best solution<sup>®</sup> for your needs. </p>

Attributes

This element supports global attributes.

Accessibility

Screen readers may not announce superscript formatting. For mathematical notation or footnotes where the superscript is meaningful, ensure the context is clear or provide alternative descriptions. Consider using MathML for complex mathematical expressions.

Related Elements

  • <sub> - For subscript text
  • <var> - For mathematical variables
  • <math> - For complex mathematical expressions (MathML)