If you overstretch something or someone or if they overstretch, you force them to do something they are not really capable of, and they may be harmed as a result. Dr Boutros Ghali said the operation would overstretch resources Do what you know you can do well and don't overstretch yourself Never force your legs to overstretch, or you can cause injuries. to try to do more than you are able to, or to use more money, supplies etc than you have