overreach
|o/ver/reach|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˌoʊvərˈriːtʃ/
🇬🇧
/ˌəʊvəˈriːtʃ/
exceed limits
Etymology
Etymology Information
'overreach' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'overrechen,' where 'over-' meant 'beyond' and 'rechen' meant 'to reach.'
Historical Evolution
'overrechen' transformed into the modern English word 'overreach' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to reach beyond,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to go beyond what is intended or allowed.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to go beyond what is intended or allowed.
The company overreached by trying to expand too quickly.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
to defeat oneself by attempting to do more than is possible.
He overreached himself by taking on too many projects.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45