Meaning & Definition of word "Overtake"
Overtake
/oʊvərˈteɪk/
verb:
- 1. to catch up with and pass while traveling in the same direction.
- Example: The cyclist managed to overtake the runner during the race.
- 2. to surpass or exceed; to go beyond in degree or amount.
- Example: The new smartphone sales are expected to overtake those of its predecessor.
- 3. to come upon or catch up with suddenly.
- Example: She was overtaken by a sudden wave of anxiety.
Etymology
●Middle English, from the prefix 'over-' meaning above or across, and 'take'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
overtake someone:
To surpass another person in speed or progress.
overtake a task:
To complete a task before it is due.
overtake a trend:
To exceed or come ahead of a particular trend.
Related Words
take:
To grasp or seize something.
over:
Above or higher than.
Slang Meanings of overtake
Meaning: To outshine someone.
● Example Sentence: She really overtook everyone with her performance at the talent show.
Meaning: To move ahead of someone in a competition.
● Example Sentence: In the last lap, he overtook the leader to win the race.