outdo

[out-doo]

verb (used with object)

outdid, outdone, outdoing. 

1. to surpass in execution or performance.

   The cook outdid himself last night.

outdo

/ ˌaʊtˈduː /

verb

1. (tr) to surpass or exceed in performance or execution

Word History and Origins

Origin of outdo¹

First recorded in 1600–20; out-, do ¹

Synonym Study

See excel.

Example Sentences

We’re pulled through the window and into the eye of the storm, where a cow spirals around like it wants to outdo the scene-stealing bovine from “Twister.”

From Los Angeles Times

Each side traded insults, trying to outdo the other side with bagpipe music.

From BBC

On it went, the entire staff working to outdo one another in service of the team.

From Los Angeles Times

At the right-wing media company The Daily Wire, the ladies’ auxiliary keeps outdoing the dudes.

From Salon

State leaders are feverishly trying to outdo each other in the quest to deliver.

From Salon

Related Words

• eclipse 
• excel 
• outclass 
• outdistance 
• outfox 
• outmaneuver 
• outshine 
• outsmart 
• outstrip 
• surpass 
• transcend