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Synonyms

overprotective

American  
[oh-ver-pruh-tek-tiv] / ˌoʊ vər prəˈtɛk tɪv /

adjective

  1. unduly protective.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of overprotective

First recorded in 1925–30; over- + protective

Vocabulary lists containing overprotective

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

For many years American Jewish writing seemed to be all about sons—sons launched from Chicago, Brooklyn and the Bronx, sons of overprotective mothers, comics punning on “the son also rises.”

From The Wall Street Journal Dec. 18, 2025

He’s positively delightful here, whether being overprotective of Deschanel or suffering her ministrations, dancing around Curtis, or fencing with Jake Johnson’s Nick.

From Los Angeles Times Dec. 15, 2025

That can make people vulnerable, and it can also make well-intentioned children overprotective.

From MarketWatch Dec. 1, 2025

"Most of all, Matthew was an amazing dad. He loved his children and was always loving, caring and overprotective," they added.

From BBC Feb. 17, 2025

“By the way, do me a favor: if you want to play overprotective daddy with me, just say so.”

From "Shelter (Book One): A Mickey Bolitar Novel" by Harlan Coben

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