overcapitalize

verb

over·​cap·​i·​tal·​ize ˌō-vər-ˈka-pə-tə-ˌlīz How to pronounce overcapitalize (audio)
-ˈkap-tə-
overcapitalized; overcapitalizing; overcapitalizes

transitive verb

1
: to put a nominal value on the capital of (a corporation) higher than actual cost or fair market value
2
: to capitalize beyond what the business or the profit-making prospects warrant
overcapitalization
ˌō-vər-ˌka-pə-tə-lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce overcapitalize (audio)
-ˌkap-tə-
noun

Examples of overcapitalize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Silvergate had said repeatedly the loan, and a few others like it, were overcapitalized with bitcoin and safe. — David Benoit, WSJ, 27 Mar. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of overcapitalize was in 1890

Rhymes for overcapitalize

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Browse Nearby Words

overcapitalization
overcapitalize
overcareful
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Overcapitalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overcapitalize. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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