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Definition of overgrow

overgrow

/ˌoʊ.vɚˈɡroʊ/
o · ver · grow
Adjective:overgrown
•
Past Simple:overgrew
•
Past Participle:overgrown
•
Present Participle:overgrowing
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overgrow Lexical Profile

overgrow Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To grow over and cover a surface, area, or structure completely, often in an untidy or unchecked manner.

Example

"Without regular pruning, wild ivy will quickly overgrow the stone walls of the cottage."

2

To grow too large, rapidly, or excessively beyond normal or desired limits.

Example

"If the shrubs are allowed to overgrow, they will block the sunlight from reaching the flower beds below."

3

To grow too large for a garment, space, or stage of life; to outgrow.

Example

"The saplings will soon overgrow their starter pots and need to be transplanted into the orchard."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for overgrow

• Rhymes for overgrow

• Nearby Words

overgraciousness
overgrazing
overground
overgrow
overgrown
overgrowth
overhand

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English overgrowen, dating to the 14th century, formed from the prefix over- and the verb grow (from Old English growan, meaning to flourish or germinate).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Overgrow. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/overgrow
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