plural overstretches
Definition of overstretch
(Entry 1 of 2)
: the act or an instance of stretching something beyond normal limits
an overstretch of political power … a classic case of military and economic overstretch.— Robert G. Patman
overstretch
verb
overstretched; overstretching
Definition of overstretch (Entry 2 of 2)
: to stretch (something or someone) to excess or beyond normal limits
Worsted yarn, and any yarn inclined to "kink" should be weighted slightly as it dries, but take care not to overstretch the wool.— Eileen Hobden temperature changes causing the tire to overstretch They overstretched [=overextended] themselves financially. Too few staff means overstretched [=overburdened] crews and patients waiting for longer.— Christina McAnea
Buying Guide
Our Reviews team has selected the best foam rollers.
Test Your Vocabulary
Which Word Does Not Belong?
-
- Which of these words does not mean "nonsense"?

Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share overstretch
Time Traveler for overstretch
The first known use of overstretch was in the 15th century
See more words from the same century