Pronunciation: [ˌə͡ʊvəɹ ɛstˈiːm] (IPA) 
The word "over esteem" is spelled with three syllables: /əʊvər ɛsˈtiːm/. The first syllable is pronounced with the diphthong /əʊ/ as in "boat". The second syllable has a short "e" sound followed by a stressed "e" sound, pronounced as /ɛsˈtiːm/. The word "over" means "excessively", while "esteem" means to hold in high regard. When used together, "over esteem" means to have an excessively high opinion of someone or something.
"Over esteem" is a verb that refers to the act of excessively or overly valuing, praising, or admiring someone or something. It involves an inflated or exaggerated estimation of someone's qualities, abilities, or achievements. When a person "over esteems" something or someone, they assign an exaggerated significance or importance to it, often to the point of creating an unrealistic perception.
Individuals who tend to "over esteem" others may idolize or put someone on a pedestal without properly considering their flaws or limitations. This can lead to a skewed perception of the person, as well as unrealistic expectations. Similarly, "over esteeming" an object or possession involves attributing excessive value or worth to it, sometimes beyond its actual merit or intrinsic value.
Though "over esteem" can sometimes stem from genuine admiration or respect, it can become problematic when it creates an imbalanced power dynamic, fosters unrealistic expectations, or blinds individuals to the shortcomings or limitations of the person or thing being "over esteemed."
In conclusion, "over esteem" refers to the act of excessively valuing or admiring someone or something beyond their actual merit or worth. It involves attributing inflated qualities or significance to an individual or object without considering its limitations.
The term "over esteem" is a phrase composed of two separate words: "over" and "esteem". Here's the etymology of each word:
1. "Over": The word "over" originated from the Old English word "ofer", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "uber". It evolved from the same Indo-European root as the Latin word "super". In Old English, "ofer" meant "beyond, above, in addition to" when used as a preposition. Over time, it developed further meanings such as "excessive" or "to a higher degree".
2. "Esteem": The term "esteem" has its roots in the Old French word "estimer" and the Latin word "aestimare". In Old French, "estimer" meant "to appraise, value, or esteem".
