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Definition of overreaction

overreaction

/ˌoʊ.vɚ.ɹiˈæk.ʃən/
o · ver · re · ac · tion
Plural:overreactions
•
Adjective:overreactive
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overreaction Lexical Profile

overreaction Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A response to a situation or event that is more forceful, emotional, or severe than is reasonable or necessary.

Example

"Canceling the entire community festival because of a brief morning rain shower seemed like a major overreaction."

2

An excessive physiological or immunological response by the body to an allergen, pathogen, or other stimulus.

Example

"Seasonal allergies are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to harmless airborne pollen."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for overreaction

• Nearby Words

overrated
overreach
overreact
overreaction
overregulate
overregulation
overreliance

Cite this Entry

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