overstep

verb

over·​step ˌō-vər-ˈstep How to pronounce overstep (audio)
overstepped; overstepping; oversteps

Examples of overstep in a Sentence

the principal overstepped her authority in ordering everyone to remain in the unheated school
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some congressional Republicans have introduced bills to give the president's executive orders the force of law, while others have shrugged off questions about whether Trump has overstepped. Tamara Keith, NPR, 15 Feb. 2025 But the video gained millions of views from parents who thought Yoo overstepped. Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 13 Feb. 2025 As was typical when overstepping, Butler walked it back, said no ill intent. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 8 Feb. 2025 What To Know Speaking at an event in Louisville, Kentucky, on Wednesday, Sotomayor pointed to the immunity case as a prime example of the court overstepping its role. Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 7 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for overstep 

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overstep was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near overstep

Cite this Entry

“Overstep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overstep. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

overstep

verb
over·​step -ˈstep How to pronounce overstep (audio)
: to step over or beyond : exceed
overstepped their authority

More from Merriam-Webster on overstep

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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