Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Having an upper part that extends beyond the lower part: Describes a structure, typically a jaw or a wheel, where the upper section projects outward over the lower section.
   • Powered by water from above: Describes a mechanism, especially a waterwheel, that is driven by water flowing onto it from a higher point.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • The old mill was powered by an overshot waterwheel. (The mill's wheel was turned by water falling onto it from above.)
  • The breed is known for its slightly overshot jaw. (The breed's upper jaw protrudes beyond the lower jaw.)

Advanced Usage

• Technical/Engineering Context: In mechanics, "overshot" precisely describes a waterwheel designed to be most efficient when water is delivered to the top of the wheel. This contrasts with an "undershot" wheel, which is driven by water flowing beneath it.
  • The restoration project focused on rebuilding the overshot wheel to its original specifications.

Variants and Related Words

• Overshoot (verb): To go past or beyond a target, limit, or mark.
  • The plane overshot the runway during landing.
• Undershot (adjective): Having a lower part projecting beyond the upper part (e.g., an undershot jaw); or, powered by water flowing beneath (e.g., an undershot wheel).

Synonyms

• Prognathous (adjective, for jaw): Having projecting jaws. (Note: More specific to jaws than "overshot".)
• Overhanging (adjective): Extending out over something. (Note: A more general term for projection.)

Antonyms

• Undershot (adjective): Having the lower part extending beyond the upper.
• Level (adjective): Being at the same height or having no projection.

Adjective

1. having an upper part projecting beyond the lower
   • an overshot jaw