Overshadow: meaning, definitions and examples

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overshadow

 

[ ˌoʊvərˈʃædoʊ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

influence

To cast a shadow over; darken or obscure. To make someone or something seem less important or impressive.

Synonyms

dominate, dwarf, eclipse, outshine

Examples of usage

  • The scandal overshadowed his achievements in the field of science.
  • Her presence in the room overshadowed everyone else.
Context #2 | Verb

feeling

To cause sadness or worry to someone or something by being very close or connected with them.

Synonyms

cast a cloud over, haunt, preoccupy, weigh on

Examples of usage

  • The memories of the past overshadowed her present happiness.
  • The fear of failure overshadowed his excitement about the project.

Translations

Translations of the word "overshadow" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ofuscar

🇮🇳 छाया डालना

🇩🇪 überschatten

🇮🇩 membayangi

🇺🇦 затіняти

🇵🇱 przyćmić

🇯🇵 影を落とす

🇫🇷 éclipser

🇪🇸 eclipsar

🇹🇷 gölgelemek

🇰🇷 그늘지게 하다

🇸🇦 يلقي بظلاله

🇨🇿 zastínit

🇸🇰 zatieniť

🇨🇳 遮蔽

🇸🇮 zasenčiti

🇮🇸 skyggja á

🇰🇿 көлеңкелету

🇬🇪 ჩრდილს ჩრდილი

🇦🇿 gölgeləndirmək

🇲🇽 eclipsar

Etymology

The word 'overshadow' originated from the combination of 'over-' (indicating excess or superiority) and 'shadow' (a dark area or shape produced by a body coming between rays of light and a surface). The concept of something being overshadowed has been present throughout history, with references in literature, art, and everyday language.

See also: foreshadow, foreshadowing, shadowed, shadowily, shadowing, shadowy.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,010, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.