[ ˌsu:pərɛrə'geɪʃ(ə)n ]
■ noun the performance of more work than duty requires.
Phrases
works of ~ (in the Roman Catholic Church) actions believed to form a fund of merit that can be drawn on by prayer in favour of sinners.
Derivatives
supererogatory -ɪ'rɒgət(ə)ri adjective
Origin
C16: from late L. supererogatio(n-) , from supererogare 'pay in addition'.