overreact

[oh-ver-ree-akt] / ˌoʊ vər riˈækt /

VERB

panic

Synonyms

STRONGEST

lose it scare

STRONG

alarm clutch stampede startle terrify unnerve

WEAK

be terror-stricken become hysterical come apart freeze up go to pieces have a fit lose nerve push panic button run scared shake in boots

Antonyms

STRONG

calm

WEAK

be calm be content

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"I did overreact, yes, in the way I reacted. It could have been different but I ended up losing my head," added Neymar.

From BBC • May 6, 2026

“I think panic is the wrong word, but I didn’t overreact on Thursday …” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

Investors should pay attention to recall numbers—as long as they don’t overreact.

From Barron's • Mar. 6, 2026

Financial markets are always looking ahead and can overreact day to day.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 6, 2026

I tried not to overreact anytime they reported making a new friend, though inwardly I was jubilant.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama