overshadow

verb

over·​shad·​ow ˌō-vər-ˈsha-(ˌ)dō How to pronounce overshadow (audio)
overshadowed; overshadowing; overshadows
Synonyms of overshadownext

transitive verb

1
: to cast a shadow over
2
: to exceed in importance : outweigh

Synonyms of overshadow

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Examples of overshadow in a Sentence

The pitcher's outstanding performance should not overshadow the achievements of the rest of the team. large trees overshadow the yard and darken the house for much of the day
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The election campaign has been overshadowed by weeks of protests led by the JAAC, which has urged residents to boycott the vote. — ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026 But at such a high proof, the heat ultimately wins out and overshadows everything else. — Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 9 Aug. 2026 However, the practice was overshadowed by a significant injury list, sidelining key players like Josh Jacobs and Luke Musgrave. — Rob Reischel, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2026 All of that was fine with Kuechly, to be overshadowed a little bit. — Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 8 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overshadow

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of overshadow was before the 12th century

Rhymes for overshadow

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Browse Nearby Words

overshade
overshadow
overshare
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Cite this Entry

“Overshadow.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overshadow. Accessed 11 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

overshadow

verb
over·​shad·​ow -ˈshad-ō How to pronounce overshadow (audio)
1
: to cast a shadow over : darken
2
: to become more important than : outweigh
the win overshadowed the player's injury

More from Merriam-Webster on overshadow

Nglish: Translation of overshadow for Spanish Speakers

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