oversteer

American  

[oh-ver-steer, oh-ver-steer] / ˈoʊ vərˌstɪər, ˌoʊ vərˈstɪər /

noun

1. handling of an automotive vehicle that causes turns that are sharper than the driver intends because the rear wheels slide to the outside of the turn before the front wheels lose traction.

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verb (used without object)

1. (of an automotive vehicle) to undergo or handle with an oversteer, especially excessively.

oversteer British  

/ ˌəʊvəˈstɪə /

verb

1. (of a vehicle) to turn more sharply, for a particular turn of the steering wheel, than is desirable or anticipated

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noun

1. the tendency of a vehicle to oversteer

Etymology

Origin of oversteer

First recorded in 1935–40; over- + steer ¹

Example Sentences

This includes losing more power on straights than expected after a snap of oversteer because of the settings imposed on the engines.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

But an oversteer snap out of the Spoon Curve double left-hander put paid to his chances, although he was still quick enough to leapfrog ahead of Norris.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

"A little bit more oversteer in the high speed. Could have given it all to charity, you know?"

From BBC • May 31, 2025

The car bounced over the kerb at the second apex of the chicane, which flicked the car into an oversteer and Norris slid into the gravel.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2025

The Dutchman has to cut across the grass at Turn 14 after his Red Bull struggles with oversteer and the gusty conditions.

From BBC • May 16, 2024