'overrule' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'overrulen,' where 'over-' meant 'above' and 'rulen' meant 'to govern or control.'

'overrulen' transformed into the modern English word 'overrule' through the influence of Old French 'ruler.'

Initially, it meant 'to govern or control from above,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to reject or disallow by superior authority.'