overrule

verb

over·​rule ˌō-vər-ˈrül How to pronounce overrule (audio)
ˌō-və-
overruled; overruling; overrules
Synonyms of overrulenext

transitive verb

1
: to rule over : govern
2
: to prevail over : overcome
3
a
: to rule against
b
: to set aside : reverse

Examples of overrule in a Sentence

The judge overruled the objection. His conviction was overruled by the supreme court.
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.
The states are asking a judge in San Francisco federal court to overrule the changes. Bloomberg, Mercury News, 25 Feb. 2026 The City Council voted 5-1 to approve a package of rule changes that include allowing the City Council to overrule the city’s Historical Resources Board when the board designates a property historic. David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Feb. 2026 Jackson overruled his envoy, ignored the agent’s explanation and warning of grave risks, and instructed him to follow the original mandate. Literary Hub, 23 Feb. 2026 That would overrule a decision by the Planning and Design Commission earlier this month to approve the 332-apartment development in East Sacramento and grant it the city’s first exemption under a new state law meant to speed up home building. Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 23 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overrule

Word History

First Known Use

1576, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of overrule was in 1576

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Overrule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overrule. Accessed 27 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

overrule

verb
over·​rule -ˈrül How to pronounce overrule (audio)
1
: to decide against
the judge overruled the objection
2
: to reverse or set aside (a decision or ruling made by a lesser authority)

Legal Definition

overrule

transitive verb
over·​rule ˌō-vər-ˈrül How to pronounce overrule (audio)
1
: to rule against
the objection was overruled
compare sustain
2
a
: to rule against upon review by virtue of a higher authority : set aside, reverse
the appeals court overruled the trial court's decision
b
: to set aside as a precedent or guide
did not intend to overrule prior jurisprudence in that area
refused to overrule the landmark case
compare follow

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