overheat
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌoʊvərˈhiːt/
KK: /oʊvərˈhiːt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become excessively hot, often to the point of causing damage or discomfort.
Example
The engine may overheat if it runs for too long without cooling down.
Tense Forms
Past: overheated
Past Participle: overheated
Conversation
I think my laptop might overheat if I keep playing this game for too long.
Yeah, that can happen, especially with graphics-intensive games.
I should probably take a break before it gets too hot.
Good idea! It's better to let it cool down for a bit.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
boil
fume
seethe
Antonyms
cool
calm
chill
transitive verb
Definition
To make something too hot or to raise its temperature excessively.
Example
If you leave the engine running for too long, it may overheat.
Tense Forms
Past: overheated
Past Participle: overheated
Conversation
I think my laptop might overheat if I keep playing this game.
Yeah, that can happen if you don't take breaks.
I should probably get a cooling pad to prevent it from overheating.
Root Explanation
Overheat → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "heat" (from Old English "hætu", meaning warmth or high temperature). The word "overheat" means to become excessively warm or to heat beyond a safe level.
Memory Tip
Think of something becoming 'excessively' warm — 'over-' means too much, and 'heat' refers to warmth.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.