overbid
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈoʊvərˌbɪd/
KK: /ˈoʊvərˌbɪd/
intransitive verb
Definition
To offer a price that is higher than what something is worth or higher than other bids.
Example
In the auction, he decided to overbid to secure the rare painting.
Tense Forms
Past: overbid
Past Participle: overbid
Conversation
Did you hear about the auction last weekend?
Yeah, I heard someone really overbid on that painting.
It's crazy how much people will pay for art sometimes.
I know! It makes you wonder if they even know its real value.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
outbid
overspend
overpay
Antonyms
underbid
undervalue
save
noun
Definition
A bid that is higher than another bid made in an auction or competitive situation.
Example
The overbid on the painting surprised everyone at the auction.
Conversation
Did you hear about the auction last night?
Yeah, I heard someone made an overbid on that painting.
That's crazy! You'd think they'd be careful with their money.
transitive verb
Definition
To offer a higher price than someone else for an item, especially in a bidding situation like an auction.
Example
She decided to overbid on the painting to ensure she won it at the auction.
Tense Forms
Past: overbid
Past Participle: overbid
Conversation
Did you see that auction yesterday?
Yeah, I heard it got pretty intense.
I can't believe someone overbid on that painting by so much!
Root Explanation
Overbid → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively or beyond) and "bid" (from Old English "biddean", meaning to offer or request). The word "overbid" means to make a bid that exceeds the current highest bid, or to offer more than necessary.
Memory Tip
Think of going 'beyond' ('over-') what you need to 'offer' ('bid') — that's why overbid means to offer excessively.
Visually Confused Words
verbid
ovenbird