overachieve

[ oh-ver-uh-cheev ]

verb (used without object)

, o·ver·a·chieved, o·ver·a·chiev·ing.

1. to perform better or achieve more than people are generally expected to, often because of high ambition, pressure from family, etc.
2. to perform, especially academically, above the potential indicated by tests of one's mental ability or aptitude.

overachieve

/ ˌəʊvərəˈtʃiːv /

verb

1. intr to perform (for example, in examinations) better than would be expected on the basis of one's age or talents

Derived Forms

• ˌoveraˈchiever, noun

Other Words From

• o·ver·a·chieve·ment noun
• o·ver·a·chiev·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of overachieve¹

1950–55; over- + achieve, or by back formation from overachiever

Example Sentences

“I’m disappointed that I haven’t been able to get them to overachieve,” Miller said.

From Los Angeles Times

But with Klopp gone, Liverpool have turned to a Dutchman who has constantly overachieved with his teams in the Netherlands so far.

From BBC

“They have a lot of energy. They’ve got a lot of guys who are really talented. A lot of people say they ‘overachieved.’

From Seattle Times

An overachieving math and science nerd as a child, he also loved playing the word game Mad Libs by himself.

From New York Times

Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer and defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. could all be first-round picks in the April draft - the Tigers counter with players every bit as capable who have overachieved to reach that point.

From Washington Times