overvunnet

Overvunnet is a Norwegian term that functions as both a past participle and an adjective, meaning “overcome” or “conquered.” It is formed from the prefix over- attached to the past participle vunnet, which comes from the verb vinne (to win or to overcome). The word describes a state in which a challenge or obstacle has been surmounted and can be used both attributively and predicatively.

In usage, overvunnet typically denotes completion of overcoming a difficulty. Predicative use appears with verbs such as er or ble: for example, “Motgangen ble overvunnet” (the adversity was overcome). Attributive use is possible though somewhat less common: “en overvunnet hindring” (an overcome obstacle) or similar phrases reference a conquered impediment or barrier. The term frequently appears in journalism, sports reporting, and personal narratives to convey resilience, recovery, or victory over hardship, fear, fatigue, or other difficulties.

Etymologically, overvunnet combines the prefix over- with the past participle vunnet (from vinne, “to win/overcome”). The construction reflects the semantic shift from “to overcome” to a state describing what has already been overcome, making it a natural choice for reporting outcomes or reflecting on past struggles.

See also: overvinne, vunnet.