Overblown

/ˌoʊvərˈbloʊn/ adjective

Definition

exaggerated, made to seem more important or dramatic than it actually is; excessive in description or portrayal.

Etymology

From 'over-' (excessively) + 'blown' (past participle of blow). Originally referred to flowers that had bloomed completely and were fading, then metaphorically expanded to mean exaggerated.

Kelly Says

The image is perfect: just as a flower that's 'over-blown' past its perfect bloom looks excessive and wilted, exaggerated claims blow past the truth into absurdity. Nature gives us the perfect metaphor.

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