overwrought
UK: /ˌəʊvəˈrɔːt/ | US: /ˌoʊvərˈrɔːt/
adj. 1. Extremely agitated or excited, often to the point of irrationality.
adj. 2. Excessively elaborate or complicated in design or style.
overwrought = over<excessive> + wrought<worked>
- over: From Old English ofer, meaning "above, beyond, excessively."
- wrought: Past participle of work, from Old English worht, meaning "shaped, crafted, or worked."
Etymology Origin:
The word overwrought combines over (excess) with wrought (worked), originally describing metalwork that was overly elaborate. By the 17th century, it evolved metaphorically to describe emotional or mental states strained beyond balance. The progression reflects a literal-to-figurative shift, emphasizing excess in both physical and abstract contexts.
After days without sleep, she became overwrought and burst into tears.
The overwrought design of the furniture made it impractical for daily use.
His speech was so overwrought that the audience grew restless.
Avoid overwrought explanations; simplicity often communicates better.
The novel’s overwrought prose overshadowed its plot.