# overprotective

/ˌoʊvɝpɹəˈtɛktəv/ (US) · /ˌəʊvəpɹətˈɛktɪv/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/overprotective
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

trying too hard to keep someone safe, so you stop them from doing normal things. You use it about parents who worry too much.

For teachers: Excessively concerned with shielding someone, especially a child, from harm or risk, to the point of restricting autonomy. Typically describes parental or caregiving behaviour.

## Examples

- Her parents are overprotective and check her phone daily.
- His overprotective mother still walks him to school even though he is twelve.
- While born of genuine love, overprotective parenting can prevent children from developing resilience and independent judgment.

## Synonyms

controlling, restrictive

## Antonyms

permissive, lax, neglectful

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.