overhand

American  

[oh-ver-hand] / ˈoʊ vərˌhænd /

adjective

1. thrown or performed with the hand raised over the shoulder; overarm.

   overhand stroke.

2. with the hand and part or all of the arm raised above the shoulder.

   to pitch overhand.

3. (in sewing and embroidery) with close, shallow stitches over two edges.

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adverb

1. with the hand over the object.

   to grasp one's fork overhand.

noun

1. an overhand stroke, throw, or delivery.

verb (used with object)

1. to sew overhand.

overhand British  

/ ˈəʊvəˌhænd /

adjective

1. thrown or performed with the hand raised above the shoulder

2. sewn with thread passing over two edges in one direction

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adverb

1. with the hand above the shoulder; overarm

2. with shallow stitches passing over two edges

verb

1. to sew (two edges) overhand

Etymology

Origin of overhand

First recorded in 1860–65; over- + hand

Example Sentences

Moments later, an overhand counter-right from Parker landed on the top of Bakole's head and scrambled his senses.

From BBC • Feb. 22, 2025

On the undercard, Welsh welterweight Oban Elliott delivered the first highlight-reel moment of the night as he knocked out American Bassil Hafez with a huge overhand right in the third round.

From BBC • Nov. 17, 2024

On the field, Erskine was known for his strong overhand curveball and his dependability as a starting pitcher in 12 seasons with the Dodgers, in Brooklyn and Los Angeles.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2024

Two rounds later, Álvarez, with Charlo again on the ropes, delivered a clean overhand right hand that stunned his opponent.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 1, 2023

Brian’s a machine, a machine gun, two at a time, three, four, underhand, overhand, both hands.

From "I'll Give You the Sun" by Jandy Nelson