Plain English Meaning
Pushing a part of the aircraft harder than it was designed to handle, so it gets damaged or wears out faster than it should.
Full Definition
To subject an engine, propeller, or airframe component to loads or operating conditions that exceed the manufacturer's published limits, potentially causing immediate damage or accelerated wear that shortens service life.
Context Anchor
Seen in adjustable-pitch propeller discussions, especially when describing how improper power or propeller speed can damage the engine or propeller.
Derivation
From 'over' (beyond) plus 'stress' (force or strain placed on something). The combined word simply means putting more strain on a part than it is built to take.
Why Pilots Care
Exceeding stress limits can cause immediate or damage leading to component failure in .