Overdriven: meaning, definitions and examples

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overdriven

 

[ ˌoʊvərˈdraɪvən ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

excessively powered

Overdriven refers to a condition where a system or component is pushed beyond its normal operating limits. This can relate to audio equipment, where signals are amplified to a level that causes distortion. Overdriven can also apply to machinery or vehicles, describing a state where they are operated at excessive power, leading to potential damage. In general, it conveys the idea of exceeding safe or designed thresholds.

Synonyms

overexerted, overloaded, overworked, stressed

Examples of usage

  • The overdriven amplifier produced a harsh sound.
  • His car was overdriven, leading to engine failure.
  • The overdriven machinery broke down due to stress.

Translations

Translations of the word "overdriven" in other languages:

🇵🇹 exagerado

🇮🇳 अत्यधिक

🇩🇪 übersteuert

🇮🇩 terlalu

🇺🇦 перевантажений

🇵🇱 przeciążony

🇯🇵 過剰な

🇫🇷 surmené

🇪🇸 sobrecargado

🇹🇷 aşırı yüklenmiş

🇰🇷 과도한

🇸🇦 مفرط

🇨🇿 přetížený

🇸🇰 preťažený

🇨🇳 过载的

🇸🇮 preobremenjen

🇮🇸 yfirkeyrður

🇰🇿 артық жүктелген

🇬🇪 გადატვირთული

🇦🇿 həddindən artıq yüklənmiş

🇲🇽 sobrecargado

Etymology

The term 'overdriven' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'over-' and the verb 'drive.' The prefix 'over-' originates from Old English 'ofer,' meaning 'above' or 'beyond,' whereas 'drive' comes from the Old English word 'drīfan,' meaning 'to force, to drive.' The use of 'overdriven' has become particularly significant in the context of sound engineering and electronic music since the late 20th century, where it relates to audio signals being pushed beyond their maximum clean levels, resulting in distortion and saturation. It has since widened in use, finding applications in various fields such as automotive and machinery, to describe equipment being operated at excessive capacities.