Search Dictionary
Definition of overcorrect

overcorrect

/ˌoʊvərkəˈrɛkt/
o · ver · cor · rect
Adjective:overcorrective
•
Past Simple:overcorrected
•
Past Participle:overcorrected
•
Present Participle:overcorrecting
JUMP TO:

overcorrect Lexical Profile

overcorrect Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make an excessive adjustment in an attempt to remedy an error or problem, thereby creating an error in the opposite direction.

Example

"After being criticized for being too lenient, the manager tended to overcorrect by enforcing overly strict rules."

2

To steer a vehicle too sharply in the opposite direction when trying to regain control or return to the proper course.

Example

"New drivers are taught not to overcorrect the steering wheel if the tires drift onto the gravel shoulder."

3

To apply a grammatical rule or prestigious pronunciation inappropriately in an effort to appear proper or educated (in linguistics).

Example

"Speakers sometimes overcorrect by saying 'between you and I' instead of the grammatically standard 'between you and me'."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for overcorrect
Antonyms
View all antonyms for overcorrect

• Rhymes for overcorrect

• Nearby Words

overcontrolled
overcontrolling
overcook
overcorrect
overcorrection
overcount
overcritical

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Overcorrect. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/overcorrect
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.