overshadow

[oh-ver-shad-oh]

verb (used with object)

1. to be more important or significant by comparison.

   For years he overshadowed his brother.

   Synonyms: dwarf, outshine, eclipse

2. to cast a shadow over; cover with shadows, clouds, darkness, etc.; darken or obscure.

   clouds overshadowing the moon.

3. to make sad or hang heavily over; cast a pall on.

   a disappointment that overshadowed their last years.

4. Archaic.,  to shelter or protect.

overshadow

/ ˌəʊvəˈʃædəʊ /

verb

1. to render insignificant or less important in comparison

2. to cast a shadow or gloom over

Other Word Forms

• overshadower noun
• overshadowingly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of overshadow¹

before 900; Middle English overshadewen, Old English ofersceadwian. See over-, shadow

Example Sentences

The Epstein vote has also overshadowed other White House initiatives.

Read more on BBC

The decision makers said they were concerned that inflation remained stubbornly anchored above the bank's two percent target, overshadowing labour market fears.

Read more on Barron's

While Strategy was established as a software company in 1989, today this business is overshadowed by its massive Bitcoin holdings, which yield nothing.

Read more on Barron's

The milestone is overshadowed in part by reality of the loss.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

But any respite from the reopening was overshadowed by rising concerns over AI stock valuations and receding odds for a December rate cut, leading to stocks’ worst day in a month.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• cloud 
• dim 
• dominate 
• dwarf 
• eclipse 
• outweigh