Langimage
English

overstress

|o-ver-stress|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˌoʊvərˈstrɛs/

🇬🇧

/ˌəʊvəˈstrɛs/

excessive emphasis or pressure

Etymology
Etymology Information

'overstress' originates from the prefix 'over-' meaning 'excessive' and the word 'stress' meaning 'pressure or emphasis'.

Historical Evolution

'Overstress' evolved from the combination of 'over-' and 'stress' in modern English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to apply too much pressure or emphasis,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to place excessive emphasis or importance on something.

He tends to overstress the importance of punctuality.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to subject something to excessive stress or strain.

The bridge collapsed because it was overstressed.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45