Overtook: meaning, definitions and examples
ποΈ
overtook
[ oΚvΙΛtoΚk ]
movement competition
Overtook is the past tense of the verb 'overtake'. It means to catch up with and pass someone or something in movement. This term is often used in the context of vehicles on the road or competitors in a race.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She overtook the car on the highway.
- He overtook his rival in the final lap.
- The train overtook our bus at the station.
Etymology
The word 'overtake' comes from the Old English 'ofertacan', which means 'to take over'. The 'o-' prefix is an intensifying element, while 'take' retains its meaning of seizing or capturing. The usage of 'overtake' in English evolved over centuries, becoming more associated with motion and competition. Initially, it was used in various contexts, but by the late 18th century, its common use in traffic-related scenarios became prominent. The term reflects not only physical passing but also the idea of surpassing someone in various life aspects, aligning with the competitive nature of society.