1. the action of extending something beyond reasonable or safe limits
2. excessive stretching of a muscle, joint, or limb beyond its normal range of motion
Usage: medical
3. in child language development, the incorrect application of a word to objects or situations beyond its proper meaning
Usage: psychology; linguistics

Examples

• The company’s rapid expansion led to financial overextension.
• His overextension of resources left the project vulnerable.
• The athlete suffered an injury due to overextension of her knee joint.
• Overextension of the elbow can cause serious damage.
• The child’s overextension of the word ‘dog’ included all four-legged animals.
• Overextension is a normal part of language acquisition in toddlers.
• The military’s overextension across multiple fronts weakened their position.