How Do You Spell OVERWROUGHT?

Pronunciation: [ˌə͡ʊvəɹˈɔːt] (IPA)

Correct spelling for the English word "overwrought" is [ˌə͡ʊvəɹˈɔːt], [ˌə‍ʊvəɹˈɔːt], [ˌəʊ_v_ə_ɹ_ˈɔː_t] (IPA phonetic alphabet).

OVERWROUGHT Meaning and Definition

  1. Overwrought is an adjective that describes a state of being excessively tense, anxious, or agitated. It refers to a person or situation that is overwhelmed and strained beyond a normal or comfortable level. The term can also be used to characterize something that is excessively elaborate, detailed, or complicated.

    When applied to a person, an overwrought individual often exhibits signs of extreme emotional distress, such as excessive worry, panic, or hysteria. This heightened state of anxiety can be caused by various factors, including stress, fear, or intense emotions. It suggests a lack of emotional control or an inability to handle a given situation with calmness and composure.

    Furthermore, "overwrought" may also describe something that is excessively ornate or embellished. In this context, it refers to an object, design, or artwork that is overly complex, busy, or intricate. The excessiveness can give a sense of clutter or overdone artistry. A literary work or a piece of writing can also be considered overwrought if it is excessively sentimental, exaggerated, or melodramatic, lacking subtlety or nuance.

    Overall, "overwrought" signifies a state of being overwhelmed or excessively worked up emotionally, or alternatively, something that is overly elaborate or ornamental in nature.

  2. A laboured to excess; worked so as to fatigue and exhaust; worked all over.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for OVERWROUGHT *

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Etymology of OVERWROUGHT

The word "overwrought" originated from the combination of two Old English words: "ofer" meaning "over" or "too much", and "wrecan" which means "to drive, force, or carry out". The word "wrecan" eventually evolved into "wrought" in Middle English, which refers to the past participle of the verb "work". Therefore, "overwrought" literally means "worked too much" or "worked excessively". Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include being excessively agitated, anxious, or emotional due to excessive effort or strain.

Similar spelling words for OVERWROUGHT

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