Definitions

excessive

[ik-ses-iv] / ɪkˈsɛs ɪv /

ADJECTIVE

too much; overdone

Synonyms

STRONGEST

disproportionate enormous exaggerated exorbitant extra extravagant extreme inordinate needless redundant steep superfluous unconscionable undue unreasonable

WEAK

boundless dissipated dizzying immoderate indulgent intemperate limitless more over overboard overkill overmuch plethoric prodigal profligate recrementitious self-indulgent sky-high stiff stratospheric super superabundant supernatural too many towering unbounded unmeasurable way-out

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cheap close economical essential inexpensive low mild moderate necessary needed reasonable sensible

WEAK

insufficient underdone

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Excessive optimism, driven by robust earnings growth, has whipped up investor sentiment to a three-month peak.

From MarketWatch • May 19, 2026

Excessive caffeine can also interfere with sleep and increase anxiety, both of which may negatively affect brain health.

From Science Daily • May 13, 2026

Excessive debt is a main reason Saks Fifth Avenue failed after buying Neiman Marcus in 2024.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

Excessive pumping of groundwater has led to long-term declines in about 70% of the world’s major aquifers, and in many areas these declines are causing the land to sink.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 21, 2026

Excessive abdominal noise is an uncommon, but not unprecedented, presenting symptom of infection with the bacteria Clostridium difficile, which can be fatal.

From "Turtles All the Way Down" by John Green

Vocabulary lists containing excessive

The Bill of Rights

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Unit 2: Pivotal Words and Phrases

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"Too Young to Drive?" and "Rules of the Road"

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