overshadow

[oh-ver-shad-oh]

verb (used with object)

1. to be more important or significant by comparison.

   For years he overshadowed his brother.

   Synonyms: dwarf, outshine, eclipse

2. to cast a shadow over; cover with shadows, clouds, darkness, etc.; darken or obscure.

   clouds overshadowing the moon.

3. to make sad or hang heavily over; cast a pall on.

   a disappointment that overshadowed their last years.

4. Archaic.,  to shelter or protect.

overshadow

/ ˌəʊvəˈʃædəʊ /

verb

1. to render insignificant or less important in comparison

2. to cast a shadow or gloom over

Other Word Forms

• overshadower noun
• overshadowingly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of overshadow¹

before 900; Middle English overshadewen, Old English ofersceadwian. See over-, shadow

Example Sentences

Yet the influx of corporate interests does not seem to have overshadowed the colourful - and occasionally camp - feel of the party.

From BBC

She and her husband Herbert “Bertie” Pelham are happily raising two children and she has become a voice of reason for Mary, offering counsel to the sister who once overshadowed her.

From Los Angeles Times

And yet, instead of being lauded for these towering achievements, Levy's time at the top always be overshadowed for many fans by the lack of success associated with his reign.

From BBC

And yet the band’s legacy remains strangely unclaimed, overshadowed by bands who made their Britishness easier to export.

From Los Angeles Times

Their close season, though, was overshadowed by the most devastating news.

From BBC

Related Words

• cloud 
• dim 
• dominate 
• dwarf 
• eclipse 
• outweigh