Meaning & Definition of word "Overrun"

Overrun

/ˌoʊ.vəˈrʌn/

noun:

  • 1. An instance of excessive or uncontrolled spreading or overflowing.
    • Example: The overrun of the zoo by visitors led to a temporary closure.

verb:

  • 1. To spread over or occupy a place suddenly or in large numbers.
    • Example: The weeds have overrun the garden, choking out the flowers.
  • 2. To exceed the limits of.
    • Example: The project has overrun its budget due to unexpected expenses.
  • 3. To overflow; to flood.
    • Example: The river overran its banks after the heavy rainfall.

Etymology

Middle English, from over + run

Common Phrases and Expressions

overrun a budget:

to spend more money than allocated

overrun with guests:

to have an excessive number of visitors

overrun with problems:

to be overwhelmed by difficulties

Related Words

run over:

to hit or drive over something or someone

overflow:

to spill over the edge

Slang Meanings of overrun

Meaning: to be out of control

Example Sentence: The party was so wild it just overran!

Meaning: to take over a situation

Example Sentence: When the kids overran the playground, it was chaos!