Overcome
/ˌoʊvərˈkʌm/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo successfully deal with or get the better of a problem, obstacle, or difficulty.
/ˌoʊvərˈkʌm/
To succeed in dealing with (a problem or difficulty).
He overcame his addiction with the help of a support group.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to climb a mountain. Overcome means you finally get to the top! It's about winning against something tough.
👶 For kids: To win against something hard, like when you beat a video game boss!
More Examples
The team overcame the odds and won the championship.
She had to overcome many obstacles to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor.
How It's Used
"She overcame her fear of flying."
"The company overcame significant challenges to achieve its goals."
"He worked hard to overcome his shyness."
To defeat an opponent or enemy.
/ˌoʊvərˈkʌm/
To defeat (an opponent) in a game or other competition.
The team overcame the defending champions.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing a game and you beat your friend. You overcame them – you won!
👶 For kids: To win against someone in a game!
More Examples
The boxer overcame his rival with a knockout.
She overcame her competitor in the final round.
How It's Used
"The home team overcame their rivals in a thrilling match."
"He overcame his opponent in the chess tournament."
Idioms & expressions
overcome with emotion
To be strongly affected by emotion, usually sadness or joy.
"She was overcome with emotion when she saw her family."
From Middle English overcumen, from Old English ofer-cuman ('to come over, get the better of').
The word 'overcome' has been used since the 13th century and originally meant 'to get the better of'. It has consistently related to winning out or conquering a problem.
Memory tip
Think of 'coming over' something that's blocking your path; you're moving beyond it.