Definition of

Override

  1. (noun, act) the act of nullifying; making null and void; counteracting or overriding the effect or force of something
  2. (noun, artifact) a manually operated device to correct the operation of an automatic device
  3. (verb, cognition) rule against
  4. (verb, motion) ride (a horse) too hard
  5. (verb, social) counteract the normal operation of (an automatic gear shift in a vehicle)
  6. (verb, stative) prevail over

via WordNet, Princeton University

Origin of the word Override

  1. O.E. oferridan, from ofer "over" + ridan "to ride" (see ride (v.)). Originally literal, of cavalry, etc. Fig. meaning "to set aside arrogantly" is from 1827. The mechanical sense "to suspend automatic operation" is attested from 1946. more

via Online Etymology Dictionary, ©2001 Douglas Harper

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