Plain English Meaning
Times when the airplane is flown faster than it is designed or approved to fly, which can damage the aircraft.
Full Definition
Conditions in which an airplane exceeds a published speed limit, such as the never-exceed speed (VNE), maximum structural cruising speed (VNO), maneuvering speed (VA), or maximum flap- or gear-extended speeds (VFE, VLE). Overspeeds can stress or damage the airframe, control surfaces, or extended components and may occur during dives, steep descents, upsets, or unusual attitudes.