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overrule Meaning & Definition

/ˌəʊ.vəˈɹuːl/

What Does Overrule Mean?

Overrule is used as a verb meaning To rule over; to govern or determine by superior authority. It is also used to mean To rule or determine in a contrary way; to decide against; to abrogate or alter.

Word Facts for Overrule

Part of speechverb
Pronunciation//ˌəʊ.vəˈɹuːl//
Syllables1
Synonymsreverse, override and overturn
Verb formsoverrules, overruling, overruled

Overrule Definition (Verb)

  1. To rule over; to govern or determine by superior authority.
  2. To rule or determine in a contrary way; to decide against; to abrogate or alter.
  3. To nullify a previous ruling by a higher power.

    The line judge signalled the ball was in, but this was overruled by the umpire.

  4. To dismiss or throw out (a protest or objection) at a court.

Synonyms of Overrule

Overrule synonyms and antonyms →

Antonyms of Overrule

No antonyms or near antonyms are listed by the available sources for this entry.

Overrule in a Sentence

The line judge signalled the ball was in, but this was overruled by the umpire.

Word Forms & Grammar

overrule (third-person singular simple present overrules, present participle overruling, simple past and past participle overruled)

Words That Rhyme With Overrule

Origin of Overrule

From over- + rule.

How Do You Say Overrule?

The standard pronunciation of overrule is //ˌəʊ.vəˈɹuːl//, spoken in 1 syllable.

Common Questions About Overrule

What part of speech is overrule?

Overrule is a verb.

What is another word for overrule?

Words with a similar meaning to overrule include reverse, override and overturn. See the full list of overrule synonyms and antonyms.

What is the past tense of overrule?

The past tense of overrule is overruled. The present participle is overruling.

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