overshadow

verb

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

transitive verb

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

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 The color alone is a statement that won’t overshadow any stylish outfit. Kerane Marcellus, Essence, 3 Apr. 2024 The season was largely overshadowed by similar ugly behind-the-scenes drama , including host Chris Harrison's excruciating Extra interview and ultimate departure. Madeline Boardman, EW.com, 26 Mar. 2024 However, her potential star power was overshadowed by an appearance by her dad, ABC alum Juan Pablo Galavis. Kimi Robinson, USA TODAY, 25 Mar. 2024 But plans for a new modern monument in the heart of Hollywood could leave all of the city’s long-standing attractions overshadowed by much more than shade. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 25 Mar. 2024 The Ohio margin and outcome were overshadowed at the time by dramatic events in other states that Biden did manage to wrest from Trump and which were subsequently disputed by Trump and his partisans. Ron Elving, NPR, 23 Mar. 2024 But this year, as Palestinians with family in Gaza, our enthusiasm has been overshadowed with overwhelming grief. Laila El-Haddad, The Mercury News, 13 Mar. 2024 Suddenly, the pain of separation and uncertainty overshadowed any promise of a better life. Boutayna Chokrane, Rolling Stone, 21 Mar. 2024 Teacher hardships — our dedicated teachers and staff face uncertainty about their jobs and livelihoods, and their commitment to our students should not be overshadowed by financial constraints. Letters To The Editor, The Mercury News, 20 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'overshadow.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near overshadow

Cite this Entry

“Overshadow.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overshadow. Accessed 18 Apr. 2024.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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