1. to catch up with and pass someone or something that is moving in the same direction
2. to become greater than or exceed in amount, number, or importance
3. to come upon suddenly or unexpectedly

Examples

• The race car overtook three competitors on the final lap.
• She accelerated to overtake the slow truck on the highway.
• China’s economy may overtake that of the United States within decades.
• Online sales have overtaken traditional retail in many sectors.
• Fear overtook him as he entered the dark forest.
• The storm overtook the hikers before they could reach shelter.
• The company’s debt problems finally overtook its ability to operate.