Overshine: meaning, definitions and examples

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overshine

 

[ oʊvərˈʃaɪn ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

to outshine

To overshine means to surpass someone or something in brightness, brilliance, or prominence. It often implies that one entity draws more attention or admiration than another.

Synonyms

eclipsed, outshine, overwhelm, surpass

Examples of usage

  • She tended to overshine her colleagues during presentations.
  • The new exhibit at the museum seemed to overshine the previous one.
  • His talent for public speaking can sometimes overshine others in the debate.
  • The dazzling performance overshined the other acts in the show.

Etymology

The word 'overshine' is a combination of the prefix 'over-' and the verb 'shine.' The prefix 'over-' originates from Old English 'ofer,' which means 'over, beyond, or excessive.' 'Shine' comes from the Old English 'scīnan,' meaning 'to emit light' or 'to be bright.' The usage of 'overshine' reflects the sense of exceeding in brightness or visibility, a concept that has evolved in the English language to include metaphorical contexts, such as personal achievements or talents. The term gained popularity in the late 20th century, reflecting the tendency in modern language to create verbs that express the action of exceeding or surpassing a certain quality.