overcome

American  

[oh-ver-kuhm] / ˌoʊ vərˈkʌm /

verb (used with object)

overcame, overcome, overcoming

1. to get the better of in a struggle or conflict; conquer; defeat.

   to overcome the enemy.

   Synonyms:

   vanquish

2. to prevail over (opposition, a debility, temptations, etc.); surmount.

   to overcome one's weaknesses.

3. to overpower or overwhelm in body or mind, as does liquor, a drug, exertion, or emotion.

   I was overcome with grief.

4. Archaic. to overspread or overrun.

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verb (used without object)

overcame, overcome, overcoming

1. to gain the victory; win; conquer.

   a plan to overcome by any means possible.

overcome British  

/ ˌəʊvəˈkʌm /

verb

1. (tr) to get the better of in a conflict

2. (tr; often passive) to render incapable or powerless by laughter, sorrow, exhaustion, etc

   he was overcome by fumes

3. (tr) to surmount (obstacles, objections, etc)

4. (intr) to be victorious

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Related Words

See defeat.

Other Word Forms

• overcomer noun
• unovercome adjective

Etymology

Origin of overcome

First recorded before 900; Middle English; Old English ofercuman; see over-, come

Explanation

Use the verb overcome when you talk about someone who has triumphed over adversity. It's great to see a friend who's always struggled in school overcome his learning disabilities and make the honor roll. You can also be overcome with emotions, or overwhelmed by your feelings. Many people feel so overcome with sadness at a movie — or happiness at a wedding — that they regret not bringing a pile of tissues with them. The verb overcome also means to win or surpass. If you are going to win the marathon, you are going to have to overcome having five runners ahead of you.

Example Sentences

To overcome severe local restrictions, the state set standards in 2023 for noise, height, fencing, setbacks and other elements of a large solar project.

From Salon • Apr. 27, 2026

Some tried to overcome the poor cellphone service to call loved ones.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 26, 2026

"We want the world to help us overcome the catastrophe of war. Enough wars - it is time to work towards rebuilding Gaza," he said.

From BBC • Apr. 25, 2026

To overcome this, researchers focused on fossilized jaws, a part of the body more likely to survive over millions of years, to uncover clues about their early evolution.

From Science Daily • Apr. 25, 2026

“I accept your generous offer,” he said, overcome with weariness.

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood

Related Words

• conquer
• crush
• overpower
• overwhelm
• reduce
• stun
• surmount
• survive
• weather
• win