Definition

An amount of money that a bank allows a person to borrow when their account balance goes below zero.

Example

She was charged a fee for having an overdraft on her bank account.

Conversation

I just checked my bank account, and I think I might have an overdraft fee coming.

Oh no! That can be such a pain to deal with.

Yeah, I really need to keep better track of my spending.

Definitely! Maybe set up alerts to avoid another overdraft next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Overdraft** → It is formed from "over-" (meaning above or beyond) and "draft" (from Old English *dræft*, meaning a drawing or pulling). The word "overdraft" refers to the act of drawing more money than is available in an account, going beyond the available balance.

Memory Tip

Think of going 'beyond' ('over-') what you have 'drawn' ('draft') in your bank account — that's why overdraft means taking out more money than you have.

Visually Confused Words