To overrule is to officially decide against a previous decision or opinion, usually by someone with higher authority.
From “over” and “rule,” first used in legal contexts for judges rejecting objections. It extends the idea of one rule or decision standing over another.
When a judge says “objection overruled,” they’re not ignoring it—they’re actively choosing a different ruling to stand higher. Overruling reminds us that in many systems, decisions can be reversed if a bigger power steps in.
Legal and institutional decisions have historically overruled women’s choices in areas such as property, employment, and reproductive autonomy, often based on paternalistic assumptions about their judgment.
Use ‘overrule’ neutrally for decisions while being aware of and, where relevant, naming its historical use to restrict women’s autonomy.
["reverse","set aside","reject","countermand"]
When discussing legal history, acknowledge women lawyers, judges, and activists who worked to overturn rulings that overruled women’s basic rights.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.