overtime
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈoʊvərtaɪm/
KK: /ˈoʊvərtaɪm/
adverb
Definition
Beyond the usual time limit, especially in relation to work hours.
Example
The employees stayed late to finish the project and worked overtime.
Conversation
I had to stay late at work last night.
Oh no, did you have to work overtime?
Yeah, we had a deadline to meet and it was really stressful.
That sounds tough! I hope you get some time off soon.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
extra
additional
supplementary
Antonyms
regular
normal
standard
noun
Definition
Extra hours worked beyond the normal working schedule, often resulting in additional pay.
Example
She earned extra money by working overtime last weekend.
Conversation
Have you ever had to work overtime at your job?
Yeah, I did last week, and it was exhausting!
I can imagine! Do you get paid extra for that overtime?
transitive verb
Definition
To work more hours than usual, especially beyond the standard work schedule.
Example
She decided to work overtime to finish the project on time.
Tense Forms
Past: overtimed
Past Participle: overtimed
Conversation
I really overtime my last photo shoot, trying to get the lighting just right.
Oh wow, sounds like you put a lot of effort into it!
Yeah, I didn't want to rush and miss the perfect shot.
Root Explanation
Overtime is formed from "over-" (meaning beyond or excessive) and "time" (from Old English "tima", meaning a period or duration). The word refers to time worked beyond the regular hours, hence excessive time spent working.
Memory Tip
Think of 'over' meaning beyond, and 'time' as a period — overtime means working beyond the usual time.
Visually Confused Words
othertime
onetime