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to go overboard
01
to be extreme or excessive in one's doings
![to [go] overboard definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/43949/original/?type=jpeg "to [go] overboard definition and meaning")
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "go overboard" and when to use it?
The idiom "go overboard" is believed to originate from nautical terminology, where "overboard" refers to going over the side of a ship and into the water. Going overboard in this context would be an undesirable and potentially dangerous situation. In common usage, it can refer to spending too much money, showing excessive enthusiasm, or taking actions to an extreme degree. This idiom is widely used in both spoken and written English.
Examples
She went overboard with the decorations for the party, turning her house into a fairy tale castle.
Do n't go overboard with your credit card; you'll regret it when the bills come.
02
from on board a vessel into the water
Examples
Be careful standing so close to the edge — we do n't want anyone to go overboard!
