ENGLISH
REFERENCE

exaggerated

adj. · v.
US //ɪɡˈzædʒɝˌeɪtəd// UK //ɛɡzˈædʒəɹˌeɪtɪd// ex·ag·ger·at·ed
  1. 1 overstated (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    described as being larger, better, or worse than it actually is.

    representing something as greater than its actual size, intensity, or importance.

    Example

    The newspaper gave an exaggerated account of the small argument between the neighbors.

    Example

    The witness provided an exaggerated description of the suspect's height, which initially led the investigators to look for a much taller individual.
  2. 2 physically enlarged (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    larger or more noticeable than what is normal or natural.

    abnormally increased in size or volume; often used to describe physical features or artistic depictions.

    Example

    The cartoon character had an exaggerated nose and tiny feet.

    Example

    The sculpture featured exaggerated proportions to ensure that the figure remained visible and imposing from the ground level.
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  1. 3 past action of overstating (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the past tense of making something seem more important or larger than it was.

    the simple past and past participle form of the transitive verb 'exaggerate'.

    Example

    He exaggerated his work experience on his resume to get the job.

    Example

    The explorer exaggerated the dangers of the jungle in his journals to ensure his sponsors felt their investment was justified.

    Usage

    As a verb, it requires a direct object representing the thing being overstated.

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