Overstresses

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To apply more pressure or demands than what is manageable for a person or object
2. To exert a level of strain that surpasses the ability to endure or cope effectively for an individual or item
3. Applies too much emphasis or force on a person or thing, exceeding what is reasonable or sustainable

Etymology: "Overstresses" is the third-person singular present form of "overstress," a verb built from the prefix "over-" and the word "stress." The prefix means excessive or beyond the proper measure, so the verb combines that sense with the familiar idea of stress as pressure or strain placed on something. The base word "stress" has a longer history in English than its prefixed form, and the two parts fit together plainly: one applies too much of that strain, whether to a bridge, a machine, or a person. The "-es" ending simply marks the present tense used with "he," "she," or "it."

Synonyms: overemphasizes