overplay

American  

[oh-ver-pley] / ˌoʊ vərˈpleɪ /

verb (used with object)

1. to exaggerate or overemphasize (one's role in a play, an emotion, an effect, etc.).

   The young actor overplayed Hamlet shamelessly. The director of the movie had overplayed the pathos.

2. to put too much stress on the value or importance of.

   A charitable biographer had overplayed the man's piety and benevolence.

3. Cards. to overestimate the strength of (the cards in one's hand) with consequent loss.

4. Golf. to hit (the ball) past the putting green.

5. Archaic. outplay.

---

verb (used without object)

1. to exaggerate one's part, an effect, etc.; overact.

   Without a firm director she invariably overplays.

overplay British  

/ ˌəʊvəˈpleɪ /

verb

1. (tr) to exaggerate the importance of

2. another word for overact

3. to overestimate the worth or strength of one's position

---

Etymology

Origin of overplay

First recorded in 1640–50; over- + play

Example Sentences

Wuttke expects Beijing to be a "subtle negotiator" and "cautious not to overplay their cards."

From Barron's • May 8, 2026

It's hard to overplay what a huge blow it would be to Australia if Pat Cummins misses some or all of the Ashes, similar to England being without Ben Stokes.

From BBC • Oct. 8, 2025

There are moments when the performers overplay the humor, suspense and moral outrage.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 21, 2025

But it’s easy to overestimate and overstate the extent of their leverage, and it’s a hand they can overplay.

From Slate • Feb. 13, 2025

I shall either overplay it or underplay it.

From Nights in London by Burke, Thomas

Related Words

• exaggerate
• maximize
• overdo
• overemphasize
• overstate
• overuse