outdo

[ out-doo ]

verb (used with object)

, out·did, out·done, out·do·ing.

1. to surpass in execution or performance:

   The cook outdid himself last night.

outdo

/ ˌaʊtˈduː /

verb

1. tr to surpass or exceed in performance or execution

Word History and Origins

Origin of outdo¹

First recorded in 1600–20; out-, do ¹

Synonym Study

See excel.

Example Sentences

Serena Williams nearly made it to 41, Roger Federer was playing at Wimbledon a month before his 40th birthday, Andy Murray defied medical predictions to battle on until 37 and Novak Djokovic could yet outdo the lot of them.

From BBC

The two kings swore to grow out their beards in advance of meeting each other at the Field of the Cloth of Gold, an aptly named 1520 diplomatic summit that provided an opportunity for both of them to outdo one another in courtly splendor and martial prowess.

From Salon

Decide for yourself as you watch a master not so much try to outdo an oldie, but earn a modestly rousing encore.

From Los Angeles Times

He is still an effective hitter when he plays so, if he can play more than his recent history would indicate, he can outdo the projections.

From Los Angeles Times

For notorious addresses, it’s hard to outdo the Laurel Canyon townhouse on Wonderland Avenue, the site of the July 1, 1981, quadruple murders that birthed movies and TV shows for more than 25 years.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• eclipse
• excel
• outclass
• outdistance
• outfox
• outmaneuver
• outshine
• outsmart
• outstrip
• surpass
• transcend