OVERDRIVE Meaning and
Definition
-
Overdrive is a noun that refers to a state or level of intense activity, effort, or speed that exceeds the normal or standard level. It is an adaption of the term "overdrive" used in the context of mechanical systems, specifically in relation to automobiles. In this context, overdrive is a gear transmission setting that allows the engine to rotate at a faster speed than the vehicle's driveshaft, resulting in enhanced speed and decreased engine strain. Similarly, the term "overdrive" has been metaphorically extended to describe any excessive or extravagant level of performance, energy, or productivity.
Figuratively, overdrive can refer to heightened levels of mental or physical exertion. It suggests a state of working at maximum capacity, often exceeding normal boundaries or expectations. When someone is in overdrive, they are intensely focused, driven, and motivated, often pushing themselves to achieve more than conventionally possible. Overdrive can be used to describe a person's work ethic, creativity, or productivity when they are operating at an exceptionally high level.
Additionally, overdrive may connote a sense of intensity and urgency in various fields, such as sports or music. It is commonly associated with a burst of energy, speed, or power that surpasses typical levels, resulting in a remarkable performance or outcome. In summary, overdrive refers to a state of extreme activity, exertion, or speed that exceeds the ordinary, often leading to exceptional results.
-
To drive beyond strength.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for OVERDRIVE
Etymology of OVERDRIVE
The word "overdrive" originated in the context of mechanics and engineering before it was adopted metaphorically. Its etymology can be traced back to the early 20th century.
The term "overdrive" was first used in the field of automotive engineering around 1919. It referred to a mechanism that allowed a vehicle's engine to operate at a higher speed or RPM (revolutions per minute) than the rate of its drive wheels. This was achieved by using a specific gear ratio that allowed the engine to turn faster while the wheels moved at a slower pace, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and reduced wear on the engine.
The word "overdrive" is formed from two key components: "over" and "drive". "Over" is a preposition that indicates exceeding a specific limit or boundary, while "drive" refers to the act of propelling or operating something.
Idioms with the word OVERDRIVE
-
into overdrive
The idiom "into overdrive" means to operate or function at an increased level of intensity, speed, or productivity. It refers to pushing oneself or something to their limits and surpassing normal or previous performance levels.
-
go, etc. into overdrive
The idiom "go into overdrive" or "kick into overdrive" means to start working or performing at an extremely high level of intensity or effort. It suggests going beyond the normal or expected level of activity, often due to increased motivation, urgency, or enthusiasm.
-
go into overdrive
The idiom "go into overdrive" means to accelerate or intensify one's efforts or actions, often beyond the normal or expected level. It refers to a situation where someone puts in an excessive amount of effort, energy, or activity in order to achieve a goal or handle a situation. It suggests going into a higher gear or exerting oneself to an extreme extent.
Similar spelling words for OVERDRIVE
- overdue,
- overtone,
- overhead,
- overheat,
- overtake,
- overrate,
- overdress,
- overdose,
- Overton,
- overtire,
- overdo,
- overtop,
- overdelicate,
- overheated,
- overdraft,
- overdressed,
- overawed,
- overture,
- overdraw,
- overtax,
- overheating,
- overeat,
- overdone,
- overeating,
- overtime,
- override,
- Overtly.
Conjugate verb Overdrive
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have overdriven
you
would have overdriven
he/she/it
would have overdriven
we
would have overdriven
they
would have overdriven
I
would have overdrive
you
would have overdrive
he/she/it
would have overdrive
we
would have overdrive
they
would have overdrive
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been overdriving
you
would have been overdriving
he/she/it
would have been overdriving
we
would have been overdriving
they
would have been overdriving
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would overdrive
you
would overdrive
he/she/it
would overdrive
we
would overdrive
they
would overdrive
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be overdriving
you
would be overdriving
he/she/it
would be overdriving
we
would be overdriving
they
would be overdriving
FUTURE
I
will overdrive
you
will overdrive
he/she/it
will overdrive
we
will overdrive
they
will overdrive
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be overdriving
you
will be overdriving
he/she/it
will be overdriving
we
will be overdriving
they
will be overdriving
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have overdriven
you
will have overdriven
he/she/it
will have overdriven
we
will have overdriven
they
will have overdriven
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been overdriving
you
will have been overdriving
he/she/it
will have been overdriving
we
will have been overdriving
they
will have been overdriving
IMPERATIVE
you
overdrive
we
let´s overdrive
to overdrive
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was overdriving
you
were overdriving
he/she/it
was overdriving
we
were overdriving
they
were overdriving
PAST PARTICIPLE
overdriven
PAST PERFECT
I
had overdriven
you
had overdriven
he/she/it
had overdriven
we
had overdriven
they
had overdriven
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been overdriving
you
had been overdriving
he/she/it
had been overdriving
we
had been overdriving
they
had been overdriving
PRESENT
I
overdrive
you
overdrive
he/she/it
overdrives
we
overdrive
they
overdrive
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am overdriving
you
are overdriving
he/she/it
is overdriving
we
are overdriving
they
are overdriving
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
overdriving
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have overdriven
you
have overdriven
he/she/it
has overdriven
we
have overdriven
they
have overdriven
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been overdriving
you
have been overdriving
he/she/it
has been overdriving
we
have been overdriving
they
have been overdriving
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
overdrive
SIMPLE PAST
I
overdrove
you
overdrove
he/she/it
overdrove
we
overdrove
they
overdrove
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website: