overshadow

verb

over·​shad·​ow ˌō-vər-ˈsha-(ˌ)dō 

overshadowed; overshadowing; overshadows

transitive verb

1

: to cast a shadow over

2

: to exceed in importance : outweigh

Synonyms of overshadow

• obscure
• darken
• blur
• blacken

Examples of overshadow in a Sentence

The pitcher's outstanding performance should not overshadow the achievements of the rest of the team.

large trees overshadow the yard and darken the house for much of the day

Recent Examples on the Web

For many fans who raced between venues to claim a drink, the night became an instant chapter in the city’s music mythology — a chaotic, communal celebration born from a disappointment that could have easily overshadowed a landmark homecoming. —Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 15 Nov. 2025

The online fanfare accompanying the viral video overshadowed a still impressive achievement in the early days of humanoids, especially by a team that AIDOL told Business Insider operates independently, without the backing of a large corporation or government funds. —Rachyl Jones, semafor.com, 14 Nov. 2025

Economic policy concerns also overshadowed investors’ excitement around the federal government reopening. —Alex Harring, CNBC, 14 Nov. 2025

The media leapt into overdrive while covering the story, overshadowing Fairchild's rising star. —Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 14 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

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

Rhymes for overshadow

• caddo
• foreshadow

Kids Definition

overshadow

verb

over·​shad·​ow -ˈshad-ō 

1

: to cast a shadow over : darken

2

: to become more important than : outweigh

the win overshadowed the player's injury