overextend

[ oh-ver-ik-stend ]

verb (used with object)

to extend, reach, or expand beyond a proper, safe, or reasonable point: a company that overextended its credit to diversify.
toextend for too long a time: to overextend a stay.

to obligate (oneself) to more activities, work, etc., than one has time for or can accomplish well.

Origin of overextend

First recorded in 1935–40; over- + extend

Fig. 37, a, by the dotted line represents the expansion at the moment of over-extension of the fetlock-joint.
Diseases of the Horse's Foot | Harry Caulton Reeks
On the other hand, we know that a style becomes lifeless by over-extension, I mean by being relaxed to an unseasonable length.
On the Sublime | Longinus
If in the past many great generals have been ruined by over-extension, so may they be again.
The Reality of War | Stewart L. Murray
Shows the part played by the over-extension of German trade in bringing on the war.
A History of the Third French Republic | C. H. C. Wright
The over-extension of credit is a not unknown American failing.
The Armed Forces Officer | U. S. Department of Defense

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