overstimulate

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌoʊvərˈstɪmjʊˌleɪt/

KK: /oʊvərˈstɪmʊˌleɪt/

verb

Definition

To cause someone or something to become too excited or active, often leading to discomfort or stress.

Example

The loud music and bright lights can overstimulate young children at a party.

Tense Forms

Past: overstimulated

Past Participle: overstimulated

Conversation

I think playing video games for too long can really overstimulate your brain.

Definitely! I feel exhausted after a long gaming session.

Yeah, sometimes I have to take breaks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Same here! A little time away helps me recharge.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

excite

agitate

stimulate

Antonyms

calm

soothe

dull

Root Explanation

Overstimulate → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "stimulate" (from Latin "stimulare", meaning to incite or urge on). The word means to excessively incite or urge someone or something, leading to heightened activity or excitement.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'excessively' ('over-') 'urged' or 'incited' ('stimulate') — that's why overstimulate means to incite too much excitement.

Visually Confused Words

vestibulate

restimulate

counterstimulate