overwinter

1 of 2

verb

over·​win·​ter ˌō-vər-ˈwin-tər How to pronounce overwinter (audio)
overwintered; overwintering; overwinters

intransitive verb

: to last through or pass the winter

overwinter

2 of 2

adjective

: occurring during the period spanning the winter

Examples of overwinter in a Sentence

Verb The geese will overwinter in a warmer climate.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Verb
Inspect Indoor Harborage Areas Many seasonal invaders seeking overwintering spots can enter your home even through the tiniest cracks and gaps, according to Crumbley. — Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 16 Oct. 2026 Trim back the dead foliage in fall to improve your garden’s appearance and prevent slug eggs from overwintering. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Sep. 2026
Adjective
There is a way to help the good guys overwinter without harboring pests. — Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 16 Oct. 2026 The female scale insects overwinter on the plants and begin laying eggs in late April and May. — Tim Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 20 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overwinter

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1900, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overwinter was before the 12th century

Rhymes for overwinter

See All Rhymes for overwinter

Browse Nearby Words

overwing
overwinter
overwise
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Overwinter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overwinter. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

overwinter

verb
over·​win·​ter
-ˈwint-ər
: to spend or survive the winter
the butterfly overwinters in Mexico
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