overwinter

1 of 2

verb

over·​win·​ter ˌō-vər-ˈwin-tər How to pronounce overwinter (audio)
overwintered; overwintering; overwinters

intransitive verb

: to last through or pass the winter

overwinter

2 of 2

adjective

: occurring during the period spanning the winter

Examples of overwinter in a Sentence

Verb The geese will overwinter in a warmer climate.
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.
Verb
The optimal indoor temperature for overwintering lavender plants is between 60°F and 70°F during the day and at least 10 degrees cooler at night. Sheryl Geerts, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Nov. 2025 This will reduce the number of snails and other pests that overwinter nearby and feed on your plants in spring. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 31 Oct. 2025
Adjective
These buds overwinter on the branches, then bloom in the spring. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 5 Nov. 2025 In Zone 9 and above, overwinter peppers outdoors with protection if needed. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for overwinter

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1900, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overwinter was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Overwinter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overwinter. Accessed 8 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

overwinter

verb
over·​win·​ter
-ˈwint-ər
: to spend or survive the winter
the butterfly overwinters in Mexico
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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