overturn
Overturn (verb) means to flip something over, or to cause a vehicle to roll onto its side or roof. Example: “The boat overturned in the storm.”
How to use overturn
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo flip physically, or to cancel and reverse a decision.
Word forms
overturned past tense, overturns plural, overturns singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The boat _____ in the storm.
Etymology
From Middle English overturnen, formed from over- + turn.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “overturn” mean?
The word “overturn” means to flip something over, or to cause a vehicle to roll onto its side or roof. In plain terms, to flip physically, or to cancel and reverse a decision.
How do you pronounce “overturn”?
“Overturn” is pronounced oh-vuh-TURN (/ˌəʊvə(ɹ)ˈtɜː(ɹ)n/ in IPA).
How do you use “overturn” in a sentence?
Here is “overturn” used in a sentence: “The boat overturned in the storm.”
What part of speech is “overturn”?
“Overturn” is a verb.
Where does the word “overturn” come from?
The word “overturn” comes from Middle English. From Middle English overturnen, formed from over- + turn.
Is “overturn” a common word?
“Overturn” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “overturn” have?
“Overturn” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to flip something over, or to cause a vehicle to roll onto its side or roof.