Definitions

1. noun

A state of exceeding or surpassing a normal or expected level of performance, such as a car engine going beyond its normal speed.

“The sports car was in overdrive on the highway, reaching speeds of over 120 miles per hour.”

2. noun

A mechanism or system that increases power or efficiency, such as an overdrive gear in a car transmission.

“The new overdrive system in the car’s transmission improved its fuel efficiency by 15 percent.”

3. verb

To exceed or surpass a normal or expected level of performance, or to operate or use something at or beyond its normal level of performance.

“The driver overdrove the car on the winding road, taking unnecessary risks and pushing the vehicle to its limits.”