do-over
UK[ˈduːˌəʊvə]US[ˈduːˌoʊvər]
n
An opportunity to try something again, especially after a previous failure or unsatisfactory attempt.
n
In children's games, a chance to repeat a turn or action, typically granted when a rule is unclear or an interruption occurs.
Morpheme Breakdown
do
over
do
to act, perform, or execute.
over
above, across, or again.
Etymology
The compound noun 'do-over' is a transparent and relatively modern American English formation, emerging in the early 20th century. It is built from the fundamental Germanic verb 'do', with roots in Proto-Indo-European dʰeh₁-, meaning "to put, place, or set," and the adverbial particle 'over', from Proto-Indo-European uperi, meaning "over" or "above." The logic of the word is entirely literal: to "do" something "over" again. This compound perfectly captures the concept of a second chance or a fresh start, evolving from the simple, concrete idea of repeating an action into the abstract social and recreational concept of a sanctioned retry, commonly used in games, sports, and informal learning contexts.
Analysis
Structure: do + over
- do: From Old English 'dōn', meaning "to act, perform, or execute." It functions as the core verb root indicating action.
- over: From Old English 'ofer', meaning "above, across, or again." It functions as an adverbial particle modifying the verb to indicate repetition or renewal.
Examples
After messing up the first draft, the teacher gave him a do-over on the assignment.
The shot didn't count because of a whistle, so the referee called for a do-over.
I wish I could have a do-over for that awkward conversation yesterday.