verb
overreact
oh-vuh-ree-AKT
Overreact (verb) means to respond to something with far more emotion or force than the situation calls for. Example: “Try not to overreact when he tells you the news.”
verb
1
To respond to something with far more emotion or force than the situation calls for.
"Try not to overreact when he tells you the news."
How to use overreact
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishReacting way beyond what the situation actually deserves.
Common pairings
overreact to
tend to overreact
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- overreacts
- Past tense
- overreacted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Try not to _____ when he tells you the news.
Etymology
Built from over- + react.
Rhymes for overreact
See all rhymes for overreact →Frequently asked questions
What does “overreact” mean?
The word “overreact” means to respond to something with far more emotion or force than the situation calls for. In plain terms, reacting way beyond what the situation actually deserves.
How do you pronounce “overreact”?
“Overreact” is pronounced oh-vuh-ree-AKT (/ˌoʊ.vəɹ.ɹiˈækt/ in IPA).
How do you use “overreact” in a sentence?
Here is “overreact” used in a sentence: “Try not to overreact when he tells you the news.”
What part of speech is “overreact”?
“Overreact” is a verb.
