overstrung

[ oh-ver-struhng ]

adjective

1. overly tense or sensitive; strained; on edge:

   Their nerves were badly overstrung.

2. Archery. (of a bow) strung strung too tightly.

overstrung

/ ˌəʊvəˈstrʌŋ /

adjective

1. too highly strung; tense
2. (of a piano) having two sets of strings crossing each other at an oblique angle

Word History and Origins

Origin of overstrung¹

First recorded in 1800–10; over- + strung

Example Sentences

The investigation slowed when solid leads became overstrung and scarce.

From Washington Times

Jack rose to his feet, confused by this sudden turmoil coming when his nerves were overstrung.

From Project Gutenberg

True, he had seen no animals which he could have any cause to fear, but at this moment of overstrung nerves he felt a child's dread of the dark.

From Project Gutenberg

It wore a severe, and, to Mr. Binney's overstrung perceptions, it seemed a contemptuous look.

From Project Gutenberg

She is so overstrung that she has had to have sleeping drafts.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• excited
• restless
• skittish
• tense
• uneasy
• uptight