The term "superstructure" refers to the structures built on top of a foundation in architecture and engineering. It includes elements like walls, roofs, and floors that provide the building's shape and functionality. The superstructure is crucial for supporting the weight of the building and protecting it from environmental factors. In a broader context, "superstructure" can also describe the social, political, and economic systems that arise from a society's underlying base, often referred to as the infrastructure. This concept is commonly discussed in Marxist theory, where the superstructure is shaped by the economic base and influences cultural and ideological aspects of society.