Definition

To give someone too much medical treatment, which can lead to negative effects.

Example

The doctor was careful not to overtreat the patient, as it could cause more harm than good.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard you went to the doctor again, is everything okay?

Yeah, but I'm starting to feel like they might overtreat me.

That sounds frustrating; sometimes less is more when it comes to health.

Exactly! I just want to feel better, not overwhelmed with medications.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overtreat → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "treat" (from Old French *traiter*, meaning to handle or deal with). The word "overtreat" means to handle or deal with something excessively or too much.

Memory Tip

Think of 'over-' meaning excessively, and 'treat' meaning to handle. This helps you remember that 'overtreat' means to handle something too much.

Visually Confused Words