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overextend

[oh-ver-ik-stend]
See more synonyms for overextend on Thesaurus.com
verb (used with object)
  1. to extend, reach, or expand beyond a proper, safe, or reasonable point: a company that overextended its credit to diversify.
  2. to extend for too long a time: to overextend a stay.
  3. to obligate (oneself) to more activities, work, etc., than one has time for or can accomplish well.
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Origin of overextend

First recorded in 1935–40; over- + extend
Related formso·ver·ex·ten·sion [oh-ver-ik-sten-shuh n] /ˌoʊ vər ɪkˈstɛn ʃən/, noun
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for overextension

Historical Examples

  • The regiment, when operating alone and attacking, should undertake an enveloping attack if it does not result in overextension.

    Infantry Drill Regulations, United States Army, 1911

    United States War Department