overshadow

verb

over·​shad·​ow ˌō-vər-ˈsha-(ˌ)dō 

overshadowed; overshadowing; overshadows

transitive verb

1

: to cast a shadow over

2

: to exceed in importance : outweigh

Synonyms

• becloud
• bedim
• befog
• blacken
• blear
• blur
• cloud
• darken
• dim
• dislimn
• fog
• fuzz (up)
• haze
• mist
• obscure
• overcast
• overcloud
• shadow
• shroud

Examples of overshadow in a Sentence

The pitcher's outstanding performance should not overshadow the achievements of the rest of the team.

large trees overshadow the yard and darken the house for much of the day

Recent Examples on the Web

Although the moment was overshadowed by Eva sharing her story with her tribemates, the Civa tribe still came in last and were headed to tribal council to vote a member out. —Emily Deletter, USA Today, 27 Mar. 2025

That will be one of the primary storylines of the season, but it could be overshadowed by one other thing: Luis Robert, Jr.’s performance. —Jared Wyllys, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025

Notable events that have occurred – and have realistically overshadowed some technical releases from the OCC – include the forming of a strategic bitcoin reserve, announcing plans to amend tax treatment for cryptoassets, and a complete overhaul of crypto policy at the SEC. —Sean Stein Smith, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025

His social media presence and watch flex celebrations overshadow his football IQ and accuracy. —Troy Renck, The Denver Post, 22 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for overshadow

• caddo
• foreshadow

Kids Definition

overshadow

verb

over·​shad·​ow -ˈshad-ō 

1

: to cast a shadow over : darken

2

: to become more important than : outweigh

the win overshadowed the player's injury