overdo

Definition

To do too much; to exceed what is proper or true in doing; to carry too far.

Etymology

From Middle English overdon, from Old English oferdōn, equivalent to over- + do.

Example Sentences

• "I overdid the sweets during the holidays and put on some weight."
• "[…] o’erstep not the modesty of nature: for anything so overdone is from the purpose of playing, whose end […] is to hold, as ’twere, the mirror up to nature;"
• "[B]elieve me, / That servant overdoes, that’s too officious; / And in presuming to direct your master, / You argue him of weakness, and your self / Of arrogance and impertinence."

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