overshadow

[oh-ver-shad-oh]

verb (used with object)

1. to be more important or significant by comparison.

   For years he overshadowed his brother.

   Synonyms: dwarf, outshine, eclipse

2. to cast a shadow over; cover with shadows, clouds, darkness, etc.; darken or obscure.

   clouds overshadowing the moon.

3. to make sad or hang heavily over; cast a pall on.

   a disappointment that overshadowed their last years.

4. Archaic.,  to shelter or protect.

overshadow

/ ˌəʊvəˈʃædəʊ /

verb

1. to render insignificant or less important in comparison

2. to cast a shadow or gloom over

Other Word Forms

• overshadower noun
• overshadowingly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of overshadow¹

before 900; Middle English overshadewen, Old English ofersceadwian. See over-, shadow

Example Sentences

The path to this weekend's founding conference has been overshadowed by splits in the party over everything from money, leadership to even its name.

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A contest between its two most well-known figures could have re-opened many of the splits that have overshadowed the founding of the fledgling party.

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Her presidency was overshadowed by several investigations, including a corruption inquiry dubbed "Rolexgate", concerning allegations she accepted Rolex watches as bribes.

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The collective sigh of relief was only overshadowed by the roar.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Thompson told BBC Sport the competition, held in Arlington, Texas, was "overshadowed by somebody who shouldn't have been there".

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Related Words

• cloud 
• dim 
• dominate 
• dwarf 
• eclipse 
• outweigh