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.

Like Wilkerson said—investors still need to pay attention, but they don’t have to overreact.

From Barron's • May 7, 2026

"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

If you lived through the 1970s oil shocks, you may overreact when you see $4 a gallon at the pump.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

The problem with Gina, and maybe all mothers—she could overreact, but she could also be right.

From "A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti