overcall

[ verb oh-ver-kawl, oh-ver-kawl; noun oh-ver-kawl ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. Cards. to make an overcall.

noun

1. Cards. a bid higher than the previous bid.
2. Bridge. a bid on a higher level than, or in a higher ranking suit than, the previous bid of an opponent that was not followed by a bid or double by one's partner.
3. Theater. a clause in an investor's agreement whereby the backer agrees to supply an additional amount of money, often 10 to 20 percent of the original amount, should it be required by the producers.

overcall

noun

1. a bid higher than the preceding one

verb

1. to bid higher than (an opponent)

Word History and Origins

Origin of overcall¹

First recorded in 1905–10; over- + call

Example Sentences

West made an unusual Unusual No-trump overcall with 4=6, not 5=5, distribution.

From New York Times

East’s double was foolish, even given West’s overcall.

From New York Times

Since three would have been a considerable overbid opposite a balancing overcall, she took the cautious route.

From New York Times

West, following his partner’s weak jump overcall, led the club six.

From New York Times

Now, East made a takeout double; South redoubled to indicate a good overcall; West advanced with two no-trump to show both minors with longer diamonds; and North at last jumped to four hearts.

From New York Times