overstate

1 of 2

verb

over·​state ˌō-vər-ˈstāt How to pronounce overstate (audio)
overstated; overstating; overstates
Synonyms of overstate

transitive verb

: to state in too strong terms : exaggerate
overstated his qualifications
overstatement
ˌō-vər-ˈstāt-mənt How to pronounce overstate (audio)
noun

overstatement

2 of 2

noun

1
: the act of overstating : exaggeration
2
: an exaggerated statement or account

Synonyms of overstate

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Verb

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Examples of overstate in a Sentence

Verb It would be overstating the case to say that it was a matter of life or death. it appears you've somewhat overstated your computer skills, if you can't find the “on” button!
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Verb
Mamut and Grönberg were persuaded by Paul Best, a new arrival at Elliott, who believed that the eclipse of brick-and-mortar retail by online commerce had been overstated, and that certain chains could flourish if well capitalized. — Nathan Heller, New Yorker, 19 Oct. 2026 Kylie Cooper | Reuters Paying more for less However, the size of Republicans’ financial advantage may overstate how much advertising that money can actually buy. — Luke Fountain, CNBC, 16 Oct. 2026 The concern may be overstated, especially since homeowners don’t ordinarily sell seats. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 15 Oct. 2026 The argument also questions whether critics overstate a joke’s effect on how audiences treat women. — Omar L. Gallaga, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overstate

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1792, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overstate was in 1792

Rhymes for overstate

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Browse Nearby Words

overstand
overstate
overstatement
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Cite this Entry

“Overstate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overstate. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

overstate

verb
over·​state -ˈstāt How to pronounce overstate (audio)
: to state in too strong terms : exaggerate
overstatement
-mənt How to pronounce overstate (audio)
noun
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