overrule

[oh-ver-rool]

verb (used with object)

overruled, overruling 

1. to rule against or disallow the arguments of (a person).

   The senator was overruled by the committee chairman.

2. to rule or decide against (a plea, argument, etc.); reject.

   to overrule an objection.

3. to prevail over so as to change the purpose or action.

   a delay that overruled our plans.

4. to exercise control or influence over.

   belief in a beneficent deity that overrules the universe.

overrule

/ ˌəʊvəˈruːl /

verb

1. to disallow the arguments of (a person) by the use of authority

2. to rule or decide against (an argument, decision, etc)

3. to prevail over, dominate, or influence

4. to exercise rule over

Other Word Forms

• overruler noun
• overrulingly adverb
• unoverruled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of overrule¹

First recorded in 1570–80; over- + rule

Example Sentences

“The wolves were a reminder that the strange curse upon the Ashtons was a mystery bigger than mere reason could overrule.”

Read more on Literature

“Lord Fredrick is their guardian. How am I to overrule him, if it comes to that?”

Read more on Literature

"In recent years, the court has been reluctant to overrule presidential decisions of this magnitude," ING analysts said.

Read more on Barron's

Ms. Tisch overruled a civilian advisory board by forgoing discipline, but Mr. Mamdani would give the board the last say and neuter the chain of command.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

But a separate 9th Circuit panel overruled her, finding the law “does not limit the facts and circumstances that the President may consider” when deciding whether to use soldiers domestically.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• annul 
• disallow 
• invalidate 
• nullify 
• override 
• overturn 
• quash 
• rescind 
• reverse 
• revoke 
• strike down 
• veto 
• void