Overtake
/ˌəʊ.vəˈteɪk/
To overtake means to pass someone while moving, or to suddenly and strongly affect someone emotionally.
Examples
- The sadness overtook him during the memorial.
- Overtaking grief can strike without warning.
- They are overtaking the train as it slows down.
- He had overtaken several competitors by the halfway mark.
- They were overtaken by panic when the lights went out.
Meanings
The verb 'overtake' originated in the 13th century from the prefix 'over-' meaning 'in excess' or 'above', and 'tæcan', an early form of 'take'. It initially meant 'to seize' or 'to capture'. By the 15th century, it evolved to mean 'to catch up with and pass', especially in motion.
Examples
- The cyclist will overtake the leader on the final stretch.
- She overtook the truck on a two-lane highway.
- He had overtaken several competitors by the halfway mark.
- Overtaking on the right is illegal in many countries.
- They are overtaking the train as it slows down.
By the 16th century, 'overtake' gained a figurative meaning. From the idea of 'catching' someone physically, it extended to 'catching' someone emotionally or spiritually. Used in religious and literary texts to describe divine judgment or sudden fear.
Examples
- Fear suddenly overtook her as she heard the noise.
- The sadness overtook him during the memorial.
- He was overtaken by a wave of nostalgia.
- Overtaking grief can strike without warning.
- They were overtaken by panic when the lights went out.