Definition

This word describes someone who is too protective, often to the point of limiting others' freedom, especially in relation to children.

Example

Her overprotective nature made it hard for her son to make friends.

Conversation

I think your parents are a bit overprotective sometimes.

Yeah, they really worry about me a lot.

It must be tough to deal with their overprotective nature.

It can be, but I know they just care about me.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overprotective → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "protect" (from Latin "protegere", meaning to cover in front or shield). The word describes someone who excessively shields or guards someone else from harm.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'excessively' ('over-') 'shielding' ('protect') another person — that's why overprotective means being too protective.

Visually Confused Words