overwrite

[ oh-ver-rahyt ]

verb (used with object)

, o·ver·wrote, o·ver·writ·ten, o·ver·writ·ing.

1. to write in too elaborate, burdensome, diffuse, or prolix a style:

   He overwrites his essays to the point of absurdity.

2. to write in excess of the requirements, especially so as to defeat the original intention:

   That young playwright tends to overwrite her big scenes.

3. to write on or over; cover with writing:

   a flyleaf overwritten with a dedication.

verb (used without object)

, o·ver·wrote, o·ver·writ·ten, o·ver·writ·ing.

1. to write too elaborately:

   The problem with so many young authors is that they tend to overwrite.

overwrite

/ ˌəʊvəˈraɪt /

verb

1. to write (something) in an excessively ornate or prolix style
2. to write too much about (someone or something)
3. to write on top of (other writing)
4. to record on a storage medium, such as a magnetic disk, thus destroying what was originally recorded there

Word History and Origins

Origin of overwrite¹

First recorded in 1690–1700; over- + write

Example Sentences

But such powerful dramas can have a habit of overwriting history - and Sheen’s performance could change forever how Prince Andrew will be remembered.

From BBC

The cockpit voice recorder “was overwritten and unavailable to investigators.”

From New York Times

Here the reviews were mixed, with critics sometimes citing him for overwriting.

From New York Times

“You want to be careful about overwriting,” he explains.

From Los Angeles Times

In that instance, the cockpit recording in the moments after the blowout was overwritten.

From Seattle Times