Outgrow

/aʊtˈɡroʊ/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to grow larger or develop more rapidly than (something or someone)

As the children grow up, they tend to outgrow their childhood clothes.

to become too mature for (something), to no longer be interested in or suitable for

She eventually outgrew her interest in toys and started focusing on her studies.

to grow taller or larger than (someone or something) as a result of natural growth

He has outgrown his friends and is now the tallest in the group.

to surpass in growth or development

The company outgrew its original office space and had to move to a larger location.

The word 'outgrow' is formed by combining 'out' and 'grow,' tracing back to Middle English.

outgrow one's shoes:

to grow larger than one's current situation or capabilities

outgrow a habit:

to stop doing something as one matures or develops

outgrow a situation:

to move past a particular circumstance due to growth

to grow past something emotionally or mentally

I totally outgrew that drama; I'm focused on my career now.

to move on from a phase in life

He's outgrown his summer job; time to find something more serious.