overrule

[ oh-ver-rool ]

verb (used with object)

, o·ver·ruled, o·ver·rul·ing.

1. to rule against or disallow the arguments of (a person):

   The senator was overruled by the committee chairman.

2. to rule or decide against (a plea, argument, etc.); reject:

   to overrule an objection.

3. to prevail over so as to change the purpose or action:

   a delay that overruled our plans.

4. to exercise control or influence over:

   belief in a beneficent deity that overrules the universe.

overrule

/ ˌəʊvəˈruːl /

verb

1. to disallow the arguments of (a person) by the use of authority
2. to rule or decide against (an argument, decision, etc)
3. to prevail over, dominate, or influence
4. to exercise rule over

Other Words From

• over·ruler noun
• over·ruling·ly adverb
• uno·ver·ruled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of overrule¹

First recorded in 1570–80; over- + rule

Example Sentences

He tried to contact a Health Republic doctor to overrule the nurse and get approval for payment.

From The Daily Beast

First, he maintains that enactment of such a law “would overrule a historic Supreme Court decision.”

From The Daily Beast

If all the mild mutineers could be induced to cling together, they could easily overrule Howe and his party.

From Project Gutenberg

I think it right to state the facts, because it shows how wonderfully God's grace can overrule.

From Project Gutenberg

Hope they'll overrule it—make a lot of difference to me if they don't.

From Project Gutenberg

It will, of course, overrule any conflicting view of the Provost-Marshal-General, if there be such.

From Project Gutenberg

We know the court that made it has often overruled its own decisions, and we shall do what we can to have it to overrule this.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• annul
• disallow
• invalidate
• nullify
• override
• overturn
• quash
• rescind
• reverse
• revoke
• strike down
• veto
• void