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

Crucially, he argued that this decision was a purely “political question” for states, Congress, and the president to decide—meaning that courts cannot overrule their determination that an invasion exists.

From Slate

Matthew Martin, 47, Sean Harper, 38, and his wife Shiza, 45, were part of the group and believed they could overrule the UK judicial system.

From BBC

And it wasn’t enough to overrule the women’s claims.

From Slate

Political appointees could overrule scientists to pull back and redo regulations they didn’t like, she said.

From Salon

Another striking passage that prosecutors highlighted was when Pence referenced Trump’s tweet telling his followers about “Operation Pence Card,” which included an article that falsely claimed Pence had the power as president of the Senate to overrule states’ electoral vote certificates.

From Slate

Related Words

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