Outgrow: meaning, definitions and examples

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outgrow

 

[ aʊtˈɡroʊ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

growth transition

To outgrow something means to grow too big or too mature for it, often resulting in the need to replace or abandon it. This can refer to physical objects, like clothing, or abstract concepts, like habits or attitudes. It highlights the process of surpassing something as a result of growth.

Synonyms

exceed, outstrip, surpass.

Examples of usage

  • She outgrew her childhood toys by the time she turned ten.
  • He outgrew his shyness and became a confident speaker.
  • Many students outgrow their passion for a particular sport as they mature.

Translations

Translations of the word "outgrow" in other languages:

🇵🇹 superar

🇮🇳 बड़ा होना

🇩🇪 überwinden

🇮🇩 melebihi

🇺🇦 перерости

🇵🇱 przerosnąć

🇯🇵 成長する

🇫🇷 dépasser

🇪🇸 superar

🇹🇷 aşmak

🇰🇷 초과하다

🇸🇦 تجاوز

🇨🇿 přerůst

🇸🇰 prerásť

🇨🇳 超越

🇸🇮 preseči

🇮🇸 vaxa út fyrir

🇰🇿 асып кету

🇬🇪 გადალახვა

🇦🇿 üstün gəlmək

🇲🇽 superar

Etymology

The term 'outgrow' is a compound verb formed from the prefix 'out-' meaning to surpass or exceed, combined with 'grow,' which has Old English roots in 'growan.' The verb 'grow' itself has Proto-Germanic origins, linking it to other Germanic languages with similar meanings pertaining to growth and development. The earliest recorded usage of 'outgrow' dates back to the 19th century. It illustrates the dynamic nature of both physical and metaphorical growth, capturing the essence of evolving beyond previous limitations or states. Over time, 'outgrow' has been used in various contexts, emphasizing personal, emotional, and physical development.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,824, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.