overdrive

[ verb oh-ver-drahyv; noun oh-ver-drahyv ]

verb (used with object)

, o·ver·drove, o·ver·driv·en, o·ver·driv·ing.

1. to push or carry to excess; overwork.
2. to drive too hard.

noun

1. Machinery, Automotive. a device containing a gear set at such ratio and arrangement as to provide a drive shaft speed greater than the engine crankshaft speed.
2. Also called hyperdrive. Informal. a state of intense activity or productivity:

   The political campaign has shifted into overdrive.

overdrive

noun

1. a very high gear in a motor vehicle used at high speeds to reduce wear and save fuel
2. in overdrive
   in a state of intense activity
3. into overdrive
   into a state of intense activity

verb

1. tr to drive too hard or too far; overwork or overuse

Word History and Origins

Origin of overdrive¹

First recorded before 950; Middle English overdriven “to cover over, overpower”; Old English oferdrīfan “to drive away, overthrow”; equivalent to over- ( def ) + drive ( def )

Example Sentences

Wendy went into overdrive, researching the best hospitals for stomach cancer treatment.

From Los Angeles Times

As election season nerves kick into overdrive, a psychologist shares research-backed ways to ease your mind.

From Los Angeles Times

"In that moment, there was a feeling of euphoria. It was my second try for England but to score against the All Blacks was special. From then on, the team kicked into overdrive."

From BBC

With Iran’s belligerence in overdrive, the United States and its allies should seriously consider a military option to take out Iran’s nuclear sites.

From Los Angeles Times

On Thursday, the theories shifted into overdrive on social media, thanks largely to a single tweet from a random X user teasing a surprise appearance on the final night of the event.

From Los Angeles Times