noun
Computing term for a character or symbol set slightly above the normal line of type, as in exponents or ordinal indicators.
数式では、指数を肩文字で表すことが多い。
In mathematical expressions, exponents are often shown as superscripts.
このワープロソフトでは、肩文字の設定が簡単
In this word processor, you can easily set superscript formatting.
上付き文字 is a more common synonym for superscript; 肩文字 is a less frequent alternative used mainly in computing contexts.
Compound of 肩 (かた, 'shoulder') and 文字 (もじ, 'character'), referring to a character placed at the 'shoulder' height of the line. The exact origin is uncertain, but it is a descriptive term used in typesetting and computing.