:::preternatural:::   pre·ter·nat·u·ral   (prtr-nchr-l, -nchrl) adj.:   1. Out of or being beyond the normal course of nature; differing from the natural.   2. Surpassing the normal or usual; EXTRAORDINARY.   3. Transcending the natural or material order; supernatural.


"Beyond what is natural, or different from what is natural; irregular. We call those events in the physical world preternatural, which are extraordinary, which are deemed to be beyond or without the ordinary course of things, and yet are not deemed miraculous; in distinction from events which are supernatural, which cannot be produced by physical laws or powers,and must therefore be produced by a direct exertion of omnipotence. We also apply the epithet to things uncommon or irregular; as a preternatural swelling; a preternatural pulse; a preternatural excitement or temper."