overdo

verb

over·​do ˌō-vər-ˈdü How to pronounce overdo (audio)

transitive verb

1
a
: to do in excess
b
: to use to excess
2
: to cook too long
3

intransitive verb

: to go to extremes

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
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.
To substitute sour cream for buttermilk, simply thin the sour cream to a thick but pourable consistency using milk or water (don't overdo it). Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 12 Oct. 2025 After Mauricio missed all of 2024 and had a slow return-to-play schedule this year, there is a balance between getting enough action versus overdoing it. Will Sammon, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025 But Maura never overdoes the feisty granny bit. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 3 Oct. 2025 Its two pressure settings are powerful enough to clear away plaque without overdoing it, all in a compact design that tucks neatly under the sink or into your carry-on. Lily Wohlner, Allure, 2 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for overdo

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of overdo was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Overdo.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overdo. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

overdo

verb
over·​do -ˈdü How to pronounce overdo (audio)
overdid -ˈdid How to pronounce overdo (audio) ; overdone -ˈdən How to pronounce overdo (audio) ; overdoing -ˈdü-iŋ How to pronounce overdo (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on overdo

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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