overdo

verb

over·​do ˌō-vər-ˈdü 

overdid ˌō-vər-ˈdid  ; overdone ˌō-vər-ˈdən  ; overdoing ˌō-vər-ˈdü-iŋ  ; overdoes ˌō-vər-ˈdəz 

transitive verb

1

a

: to do in excess

b

: to use to excess

c

: exaggerate

2

: to cook too long

3

: exhaust

intransitive verb

: to go to extremes

Synonyms

• exaggerate

Examples of overdo in a Sentence

You should exercise every day, but don't overdo it.

The acting in that play was badly overdone.

Don't overdo the salt in this recipe.

The cook overdid the hamburgers.

Recent Examples on the Web

The worst part of this tax is that Illinois Democrats, in their desperation for more revenue, ended up encouraging more casual bettors to overdo it and get into financial trouble. —The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 3 Sep. 2025

But the actor slips into the role flawlessly (with the help of good makeup), never overdoing it and adding a fair amount of gravitas to the constantly shifting scenery. —Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 31 Aug. 2025

Be careful not to overdo it, as heavy physical exertion may be a stroke risk factor if your body isn't used to it.5 Make time to socialize: Quality time with close friends and family can significantly reduce your stress. —Ruth Jessen Hickman, Health, 30 Aug. 2025

Occasional shots won’t move the needle much, but adding them regularly—without overdoing it—can complement an already balanced diet. —Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 29 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

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

Rhymes for overdo

• amadou
• avenue
• ballyhoo
• baraboo
• barbecue
• barbeque
• bugaboo
• cabildo
• caribou
• cockatoo
• detinue
• devalue

Kids Definition

overdo

verb

over·​do -ˈdü 

overdid -ˈdid  ; overdone -ˈdən  ; overdoing -ˈdü-iŋ 

1

: to do too much

overdoes it getting ready for a party

2

: exaggerate

overdo praise

3

: to cook too long

meat that is overdone