Meaning & Definition of word "Overdo"

Overdo

/ˈoʊvərˌdu/

verb:

  • 1. To do something to an excessive degree; to exaggerate or overemphasize.
    • Example: She tends to overdo her makeup for casual outings.
  • 2. To put too much effort or energy into an activity, leading to exhaustion or ineffectiveness.
    • Example: If you overdo your workouts, you risk injuring yourself.
  • 3. To exceed the limits of what's considered proper or reasonable.
    • Example: He didn't mean to overdo it with the decorations for the party.

Etymology

from Middle English 'overdon', meaning to do too much

Common Phrases and Expressions

overdo it:

to do something too much or excessively

overdo the drama:

to exaggerate emotional expressions

overdo the effects:

to apply effects more than necessary

Related Words

overindulgence:

excessive indulgence, especially in eating or drinking

exaggeration:

a statement that makes something worse, larger, or more important than it is

excess:

an amount of something that is more than necessary or permitted

Slang Meanings of overdo

Meaning: to go all out

Example Sentence: He really overdid it on the birthday party theme.

Meaning: to go overboard

Example Sentence: She tends to overdo when it comes to buying gifts; she always goes overboard.