overqualified

adjective

over·​qual·​i·​fied ˌō-vər-ˈkwä-lə-ˌfīd How to pronounce overqualified (audio)
Synonyms of overqualifiednext
: having more education, training, or experience than a job calls for

Examples of overqualified in a Sentence

They didn't hire her because she was overqualified for the job.
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.
In 2016, voters were asked to choose between a populist candidate dogged by questions about his integrity, judgment, decency, civility, empathy, and respect for everyone from complete strangers to his own wife, and an overqualified, glass-ceiling-smashing woman. Shannon A. Mullen, The Atlantic, 4 June 2026 Although O’Neal was the clear focal point of the Magic as Wembanyama is for the Spurs, O’Neal was playing with an overqualified young supporting cast, just like Wembanyama is with San Antonio. Nick Friedell, New York Times, 23 May 2026 Social media is rife with frustrated job seekers submitting hundreds of applications with no callbacks and overqualified candidates desperately throwing resumes at entry-level positions. Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 24 Mar. 2026 Meanwhile, overqualified singers like Ravyn Lenae, Mustafa, and Omar Apollo do some of the background vocal riffs that Harlow’s limited range won’t reach. Alphonse Pierre, Pitchfork, 17 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overqualified

Word History

First Known Use

1953, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overqualified was in 1953

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Cite this Entry

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

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