To do better than someone or something else in some activity, aspect, or deed. I trained her in this profession, and she surpassed me in it faster than I could have ever anticipated. The new model surpasses its predecessor in the sharpness of its camera's images, but beyond that, there's isn't much new to write home about.

To do better in some activity or deed than one has ever been able to accomplish. The president has surpassed himself with this State of the Union address, delivering one of the most powerful and inspiring speeches in recent memory. Congratulations, team, each and everyone of you surpassed yourselves on this project!