overshadow

verb

over·​shad·​ow ˌō-vər-ˈsha-(ˌ)dō How to pronounce overshadow (audio)
overshadowed; overshadowing; overshadows
Synonyms of overshadownext

transitive verb

1
: to cast a shadow over
2
: to exceed in importance : outweigh

Synonyms of overshadow

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Examples of overshadow in a Sentence

The pitcher's outstanding performance should not overshadow the achievements of the rest of the team. large trees overshadow the yard and darken the house for much of the day
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.
For decades, Holt’s contribution was overshadowed by her male contemporaries. — Lara Johnson-Wheeler, Vogue, 3 July 2026 The triumph of their pioneering climb, however, was overshadowed by the pair’s disastrous descent. — Michael Loria, USA Today, 7 July 2026 Also, very few actors can convincingly share the screen with a non-professional actor without overshadowing them. — Marta Balaga, Variety, 6 July 2026 On this side of the millennium, after a brief overshadowing by Greek yogurt in the early aughts, cottage cheese is firmly back on the minds of those considering their nutrition. — Rebecca Firkser, Bon Appetit Magazine, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for overshadow

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of overshadow was before the 12th century

Rhymes for overshadow

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Browse Nearby Words

overshade
overshadow
overshare
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

overshadow

verb
over·​shad·​ow -ˈshad-ō How to pronounce overshadow (audio)
1
: to cast a shadow over : darken
2
: to become more important than : outweigh
the win overshadowed the player's injury

More from Merriam-Webster on overshadow

Nglish: Translation of overshadow for Spanish Speakers

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