overgrow
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌoʊvərˈɡroʊ/
KK: /oʊvərɡroʊ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To grow excessively or beyond the usual limits, often referring to plants or vegetation that cover an area.
Example
The garden began to overgrow with weeds after a few weeks of neglect.
Tense Forms
Past: overgrew
Past Participle: overgrown
Conversation
Have you noticed how quickly the weeds overgrow in the garden?
Yeah, it's like they appear overnight!
We should probably spend some time pulling them out before they take over.
Definitely! I don't want the plants to get choked out.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
thrive
expand
proliferate
Antonyms
diminish
shrink
decline
transitive verb
Definition
To grow larger than something else or to cover it completely with plants or vegetation.
Example
The weeds began to overgrow the garden, making it hard to see the flowers.
Tense Forms
Past: overgrew
Past Participle: overgrown
Conversation
Have you seen my garden lately?
Yeah, it looks amazing!
Thanks! I’m worried it might overgrow if I don’t trim it soon.
Root Explanation
Overgrow → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively or beyond) and "grow" (from Old English "growan", meaning to increase or develop). The word "overgrow" means to grow excessively or beyond normal limits, often referring to plants that have grown too large or wild.
Memory Tip
Think of something growing 'beyond' ('over-') its normal size or limits — that's why overgrow means to grow excessively.
Visually Confused Words
forgrow