overshadow
UK: ˌəʊvəˈʃædəʊ | US: ˌoʊvərˈʃædoʊ
vt. to cast a shadow over; to appear more prominent or important than something else
vt. to cause someone or something to seem less significant or happy
The word "overshadow" combines "over," from Old English "ofer" (meaning "above" or "excessive"), and "shadow," from Old English "sceadwe" (meaning "shade" or "darkness"). The term originally described the literal casting of a shadow over something, but over time, it evolved to metaphorically describe dominance or diminished importance. The logic follows the physical act of one thing blocking light (and thus attention or significance) from another.
The tall trees overshadow the small garden, blocking sunlight.
Her achievements overshadow those of her colleagues.
The scandal overshadowed the company’s recent success.
His cheerful personality overshadows his struggles.
The mountain overshadows the valley below.