overexpose

verb

over·​ex·​pose ˌō-vər-ik-ˈspōz 

overexposed; overexposing; overexposes

transitive verb

: to expose excessively: such as

a

: to expose to excessive radiation (such as light)

overexpose film

an overexposed photograph

b

: to expose (someone, such as a celebrity) to excessive publicity especially to the extent that attraction is diminished

overexposure

ˌō-vər-ik-ˈspō-zhər 

noun

Synonyms

• hackney
• overuse
• stereotype
• vulgarize

Examples of overexpose in a Sentence

It is harmful to overexpose your skin to the sun's rays.

He has been overexposed by the media.

Recent Examples on the Web

There’s even a nifty dryer attachment that swiftly smooths hair without overexposing it to heat; this is thanks to the Coanda effect, which tames hair without the need to press it against a heated surface, like a flat iron. —Clara McMahon, People.com, 10 Dec. 2024

Waddell wants to be careful not to overexpose the Blue Jackets’ young players, and slotting Monahan in the No. 1 spot would slide second-year pro Adam Fantilli into a second-line role while Cole Sillinger, already heading into his fourth season, can thrive as a third-line checker. —Aaron Portzline, The Athletic, 1 July 2024

The fastball was in turn overexposed and succumbed to a .350 batting average from opponents. —Cody Stavenhagen, The Athletic, 26 Aug. 2024

Stars are generally not so available, but Powell isn’t afraid of being overexposed. —Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 15 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

overexpose

verb

over·​ex·​pose ˌō-və-rik-ˈspōz 

overexposed; overexposing

: to expose (as photographic material) for a longer time than is needed or desirable

overexposure

-ˈspō-zhər 

noun

Medical Definition

overexpose

transitive verb

over·​ex·​pose ˌō-və-rik-ˈspōz 

overexposed; overexposing

: to expose excessively

skin overexposed to sunlight

overexposure

-ˈspō-zhər 

noun