overshadow

verb

over·​shad·​ow ˌō-vər-ˈsha-(ˌ)dō 

overshadowed; overshadowing; overshadows

transitive verb

1

: to cast a shadow over

2

: to exceed in importance : outweigh

Synonyms of overshadow

• obscure
• darken
• blur
• blacken

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 Michigan gubernatorial race was overshadowed by the much closer and more contentious Senate race, pitting Democrat Abdul el Sayed against Republican Mike Rogers. — Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 4 Nov. 2026

Higher-profile races on the ballot overshadowed the contest for the state superintendent’s office, but CTA funding and the association of teachers with a particular candidate have helped in the past. — Howard Blume, Los Angeles Times, 4 Nov. 2026

His testimony was possibly overshadowed by a fiery cross-examination. — Penny Kmitt, CBS News, 4 Nov. 2026

And does repeatedly highlighting negativity overshadow the positive things happening with attendance and television audiences? — Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 3 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

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

Rhymes for overshadow

• caddo
• foreshadow

Kids Definition

overshadow

verb

over·​shad·​ow -ˈshad-ō 

1

: to cast a shadow over : darken

2

: to become more important than : outweigh

the win overshadowed the player's injury