overstep

verb

over·​step ˌō-vər-ˈstep How to pronounce overstep (audio)
overstepped; overstepping; oversteps

Examples of overstep in a Sentence

the principal overstepped her authority in ordering everyone to remain in the unheated school
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But Republicans insist the CFPB has overstepped its authority and the Constitution with a regulatory crusade against law-abiding businesses. Julia Shapero, The Hill, 9 Dec. 2024 Stacey Lee, professor of health law and ethics at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School, says the Idaho board’s decision oversteps the authority of the Food and Drug Administration, which deemed the COVID-19 vaccine safe and effective. Adrianna Rodriguez, USA TODAY, 11 Nov. 2024 The problem has been exacerbated by some councilmembers who have placed excessive demands on staff and overstepped their authority. East Bay Times Editorial, The Mercury News, 31 Oct. 2024 Heidi Feek has a message for fans overstepping their boundary amid a family dispute with her father Rory Feek. Rachel Desantis, People.com, 17 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for overstep 

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overstep was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near overstep

Cite this Entry

“Overstep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overstep. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

overstep

verb
over·​step -ˈstep How to pronounce overstep (audio)
: to step over or beyond : exceed
overstepped their authority

More from Merriam-Webster on overstep

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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