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adj

overprotective

oh-vuhp-ruh-TEHK-tihv

Overprotective (adj) means Excessively concerned with protecting someone, to an unhelpful or restrictive degree. Example: “Her overprotective parents wouldn't let her walk to school alone.”

adj
1
Excessively concerned with protecting someone, to an unhelpful or restrictive degree.
"Her overprotective parents wouldn't let her walk to school alone."

How to use overprotective

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishProtecting someone way more than is actually needed, often smothering them in the process.

Common pairings
overprotective parent overprotective of
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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Her _____ parents wouldn't let her walk to school alone.

Etymology

Built from over- + protective.

Rhymes for overprotective

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Frequently asked questions

What does “overprotective” mean?

The word “overprotective” means excessively concerned with protecting someone, to an unhelpful or restrictive degree. In plain terms, protecting someone way more than is actually needed, often smothering them in the process.

How do you pronounce “overprotective”?

“Overprotective” is pronounced oh-vuhp-ruh-TEHK-tihv (/ˌoʊvɚpɹəˈtɛktɪv/ in IPA).

How do you use “overprotective” in a sentence?

Here is “overprotective” used in a sentence: “Her overprotective parents wouldn't let her walk to school alone.”

What part of speech is “overprotective”?

“Overprotective” is an adjective.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial