overdress

American  

[oh-ver-dres, oh-ver-dres] / ˌoʊ vərˈdrɛs, ˈoʊ vərˌdrɛs /

verb (used with or without object)

overdressed, overdressing

1. to dress with too much display, finery, or formality.

   He certainly overdressed for the occasion.

2. to put excessive clothing on.

   She tends to overdress her children.

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noun

1. a dress worn over another, which it covers either partially or completely.

overdress British  

verb

1. to dress (oneself or another) too elaborately or finely

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noun

1. a dress that may be worn over a jumper, blouse, etc

Etymology

Origin of overdress

First recorded in 1700–10; over- + dress

Example Sentences

Her rule of thumb: "Overdress, but be comfy."

From Time Magazine Archive

Overdress; causing unnecessary expense and waste of time.

From Enquire Within Upon Everything The Great Victorian Domestic Standby by Anonymous

Overdress and bodice of white silk brocaded with scarlet roses.

From Patriotic Plays and Pageants for Young People by Mackay, Constance D'Arcy

Overdress and bodice of dark green, flowered in old rose.

From Patriotic Plays and Pageants for Young People by Mackay, Constance D'Arcy

Related Words

• attire
• clothe
• deck out
• embellish
• spruce up