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Definition of "overreach" []

  • To reach or extend over or beyond. (verb-transitive)
  • To miss by reaching too far or attempting too much: overreach a goal. (verb-transitive)
  • To defeat (oneself) by going too far or by doing or trying to gain too much. (verb-transitive)
  • To get the better of, especially by deceitful cleverness; outwit. (verb-transitive)
  • To reach or go too far. (verb-intransitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "overreach" in a sentence
  • ""I don't want to use the term 'overreach,' " Dunn told me, pausing for effect, "but the broad nature of the proposed regulations, both in terms of who they apply to, this gigantic universe of people, what they consider 'children's programming,' the unworkable, impracticable standards they use in their nutritional values - that's the issue.""
  • "WASHINGTON - This week's elections around the country were brought to you by the word "overreach," specifically conservative overreach."
  • ""The Dems will overreach" is the understatement of the year."