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Definition of overstrain

overstrain

/ˌoʊvərˈstreɪn/
o · ver · strain
Plural:overstrains
•
Adjective:overstrained
•
Past Simple:overstrained
•
Past Participle:overstrained
•
Present Participle:overstraining
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overstrain Lexical Profile

overstrain Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To exert, stretch, or tax (oneself, a body part, or a system) to an excessive or injurious degree.

Example

"Be careful not to overstrain your eyes by reading in dim light for several hours."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

Excessive physical or mental exertion, tension, or stress, or an injury resulting from such exertion.

Example

"The doctor recommended two weeks of complete rest to recover from vocal cord overstrain."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for overstrain

• Nearby Words

overstimulation
overstock
overstored
overstrain
overstress
overstretch
overstretched

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the prefix 'over-' and 'strain', which ultimately derives from Latin 'stringere' (to draw tight or bind).

Cite this Entry

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