overwrought
|o/ver/wrought|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˌoʊvərˈrɔt/
🇬🇧
/ˌəʊvəˈrɔːt/
excessively worked or excited
Etymology
Etymology Information
'overwrought' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'overwroght,' where 'over-' meant 'excessively' and 'wroght' meant 'worked.'
Historical Evolution
'overwroght' transformed into the modern English word 'overwrought' through the influence of Old English 'geworht,' meaning 'worked.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'excessively worked or crafted,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'nervous excitement' and 'excessively intricate.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
in a state of nervous excitement or anxiety.
She was too overwrought to listen to reason.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/19 10:36