Overprotective

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˌoʊvɚpɹəˈtɛktɪv/

Definitions

1. Excessively shielding someone from potential harm or difficulties in a way that may hinder their independence or growth
2. Excessive shielding of an individual from perceived risks or challenges may inhibit their personal development and autonomy
3. An approach characterized by an exaggerated level of safeguarding against threats or setbacks can obstruct a person’s ability to flourish independently

Etymology: "Overprotective" is a plain compound: the prefix "over-", meaning excessive or too much, attached to "protective." The prefix is an old English element, descended from the Old English "ofer," which carried the sense of "above" or "beyond" and gradually took on the extra meaning of "too much" that it has today. "Protective" has a longer road into English. It was borrowed through Medieval Latin "prōtēctīvus," a derivative of the Latin verb "protegere," meaning "to cover in front," from "pro-" (forward) and "tegere" (to cover). So the word's deepest image is of something placed in front to shield, and "overprotective" simply means that shielding has been pushed beyond what is needed.

Synonyms: overbearing, protective, sheltering, guarding, coddling

Antonyms: neglectful, uninvolved, indifferent, carefree, unconcerned