overhand

[ oh-ver-hand ]

adjective

1. thrown or performed with the hand raised over the shoulder; overarm:

   overhand stroke.

2. with the hand and part or all of the arm raised above the shoulder:

   to pitch overhand.

3. (in sewing and embroidery) with close, shallow stitches over two edges.

adverb

1. with the hand over the object:

   to grasp one's fork overhand.

noun

1. an overhand stroke, throw, or delivery.

verb (used with object)

1. to sew overhand.

overhand

/ ˈəʊvəˌhænd /

adjective

1. thrown or performed with the hand raised above the shoulder
2. sewn with thread passing over two edges in one direction

adverb

1. with the hand above the shoulder; overarm
2. with shallow stitches passing over two edges

verb

1. to sew (two edges) overhand

Word History and Origins

Origin of overhand¹

First recorded in 1860–65; over- + hand

Example Sentences

Cyborg launched a couple of big overhand rights in the closing stages but as the bell rang, both fighters raised their arms in the air, believing they had done enough to secure victory.

From BBC

Paul floored Perry with an overhand right inside the first minute of the fight and again with a powerful right early in the second.

From BBC

Clark was driving to the basket late in the third quarter when Reese came up from behind and took an overhand swing with her right arm.

From Los Angeles Times

On the field, Erskine was known for his strong overhand curveball and his dependability as a starting pitcher in 12 seasons with the Dodgers, in Brooklyn and Los Angeles.

From Los Angeles Times

Some wear their fatigues inside out, identifying them as Marines who are just learning to swim and flailing the length of the pool in a mix of dog paddle and haphazard overhand stroke.

From Seattle Times