overstress

[ oh-ver-stres ]

verb (used with object)

1. overemphasize.
2. to subject to excessive stress or strain.
3. Mechanics. to stress (a metal or other body) to the point of deformation.

Word History and Origins

Origin of overstress¹

First recorded in 1915–20; over- + stress

Example Sentences

The surge of people Trusty noticed exploring Colorado’s backcountry were overstressing not just the land but those who manage it.

From Outside Online

“I cannot overstress the importance for companies to be able to design, benchmark, improve and transform business processes across the enterprise to support new capabilities and business models,” he said in a statement.

From TechCrunch

That he should overstress the fall of man and original sin, what wonder?

From Project Gutenberg

It is difficult to overstress the importance of data from stranded cetaceans.

From Project Gutenberg

Of course, rest must be taken, and the overstress which caused the trouble avoided in future.

From Project Gutenberg

In times of overstress and strain, the defective organ or organs will manifest their weakness.

From Project Gutenberg

"I can't overstress the importance of this," Forential said.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• exaggerate
• maximize
• overdo
• overemphasize
• overstate
• overuse