overrule

verb

over·​rule ˌō-vər-ˈrül How to pronounce overrule (audio)
ˌō-və-
overruled; overruling; overrules
Synonyms of overrulenext

transitive verb

1
: to rule over : govern
2
: to prevail over : overcome
3
a
: to rule against
b
: to set aside : reverse

Examples of overrule in a Sentence

The judge overruled the objection. His conviction was overruled by the supreme court.
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.
Nothing can overrule God’s omnipotent and omnipresent love and care. — André Kisonga, Christian Science Monitor, 30 June 2026 This was the 10th goal overruled by VAR thus far in the World Cup. — Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026 That invisible market sits in the room and quietly overrules the mission, meeting after meeting, until the mission is gone. — Kyle Westaway, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 Nester repeatedly objected to evidence introduced by prosecutors, but was overruled by the judge. — Hannah Schoenbaum, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for overrule

Word History

First Known Use

1576, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of overrule was in 1576

Rhymes for overrule

See All Rhymes for overrule

Browse Nearby Words

overruff
overrule
overruler
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Overrule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overrule. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

overrule

verb
over·​rule -ˈrül How to pronounce overrule (audio)
1
: to decide against
the judge overruled the objection
2
: to reverse or set aside (a decision or ruling made by a lesser authority)

Legal Definition

overrule

transitive verb
over·​rule ˌō-vər-ˈrül How to pronounce overrule (audio)
1
: to rule against
the objection was overruled
compare sustain
2
a
: to rule against upon review by virtue of a higher authority : set aside, reverse
the appeals court overruled the trial court's decision
b
: to set aside as a precedent or guide
did not intend to overrule prior jurisprudence in that area
refused to overrule the landmark case
compare follow

More from Merriam-Webster on overrule

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for overrule

Nglish: Translation of overrule for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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