overstep

verb

over·​step ˌō-vər-ˈstep How to pronounce overstep (audio)
overstepped; overstepping; oversteps
Synonyms of overstepnext

transitive verb

: exceed, transgress

Synonyms of overstep

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Examples of overstep in a Sentence

the principal overstepped her authority in ordering everyone to remain in the unheated school
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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.
Chan was the subject of backlash in the Enhypen fan community after she was accused of overstepping boundaries while attending a concert in July. — Moises Mendez Ii, USA Today, 11 Aug. 2026 The city had argued that arbitrator Leland Shurin overstepped his authority in his ruling. — Judy L. Thomas, Kansas City Star, 11 Aug. 2026 The Justice Department has defended its track record in court and accused judges of overstepping their authority. — Npr Staff, NPR, 8 Aug. 2026 Critics rightly questioned whether the federal government was overstepping its authority, and the effort quickly stalled. — David Rosowsky, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overstep

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Phrases Containing overstep

Rhymes for overstep

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Browse Nearby Words

oversteer
overstep
overstep the bounds/limits
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Cite this Entry

“Overstep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overstep. Accessed 18 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

overstep

verb
over·​step -ˈstep How to pronounce overstep (audio)
: to step over or beyond : exceed
overstepped their authority

More from Merriam-Webster on overstep

Nglish: Translation of overstep for Spanish Speakers

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