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

Mommie Dearest In conversations about Crawford’s legacy, the actor’s complex personal life sometimes overshadows her professional triumphs. — Megan Johnson, Architectural Digest, 14 Oct. 2026

Still, the company's move to cut terabytes of storage from paid Microsoft 365 plans is enough to overshadow that improvement for consumers. — Chris Hoffman, PC Magazine, 14 Oct. 2026

The comeback narrative surrounding ICEMAN might ultimately overshadow whatever praise HABIBTI receives in the years to come. — Carl Lamarre, Billboard, 14 Oct. 2026

His wife, Lee Krasner, has often been overshadowed by her husband. — Brittney Melton, NPR, 13 Oct. 2026

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