overpass

verb

over·​pass ˌō-vər-ˈpas How to pronounce overpass (audio)
overpassed; overpassing; overpasses
Synonyms of overpassnext

transitive verb

1
: to pass across, over, or beyond : cross
also : surpass
2
3

Examples of overpass in a Sentence

to keep peace in the family, he was forced to overpass his in-laws' frequent put-downs a filmmaker whose technical bravura overpasses his ability to tell a coherent story
Recent Examples on the Web
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Prior court decisions and guidance from the Department of Justice have set up hurdles to overcome before the court is forced to overpass a reporter’s privilege to protect sources. Kevin Dolak, HollywoodReporter, 9 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for overpass

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of overpass was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Overpass.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overpass. Accessed 10 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

overpass

1 of 2 verb
over·​pass ˌō-vər-ˈpas How to pronounce overpass (audio)
1
: to pass across, over, or beyond
2
3

overpass

2 of 2 noun
over·​pass ˈō-vər-ˌpas How to pronounce overpass (audio)
1
: a crossing (as of two highways or of a highway and railroad) at different levels usually by means of a bridge
2
: the upper level of an overpass

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