overtaxes; overtaxed; overtaxing
1
: to make (someone or something) do more than that person or thing is able to do or should do : to make heavy demands on (someone or something)
New housing development in the town will overtax sewer and drinking water systems.
We are afraid the trip might overtax his health/strength.
The children overtaxed her patience.
The hospital's overtaxed emergency room needs more doctors.
2
: to make (people) pay too much in taxes
He claims that the city has been overtaxing its residents for years.
Cite this Entry
“Overtax.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/overtax. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.
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