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overdetermined

American  
[oh-ver-di-tur-mind] / ˌoʊ vər dɪˈtɜr mɪnd /

adjective

  1. excessively or unduly determined. determined.


Etymology

Origin of overdetermined

First recorded in 1915–20; over- + determined

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But the decision to accept this as true is a ceding of ground that is not inevitable, or irrevocable, or constitutionally overdetermined.

From Slate • Jul. 21, 2025

As it stands, the characterization is thin, the motivations are overdetermined, and the Colony’s endurance demands too steep a suspense of disbelief.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 20, 2025

Still, “Saviors,” Green Day’s new album, is a decisive, even overdetermined return to form.

From New York Times • Jan. 22, 2024

Some of his actions and views strain credulity and feel overdetermined.

From Washington Post • Feb. 15, 2023

We might rest satisfied with that, yet a more complete interpretation is quite possible, in which particular images are shown to be overdetermined.

From Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts by Jelliffe, Smith Ely