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.

It also formed a functional monopoly, sparking concerns of excessive profit-taking.

From Barron's • May 2, 2026

The Tule and Tulare Lake groundwater subbasins were put on probation by the board in 2024 because they weren’t doing enough to control excessive pumping, which has caused levels to plummet.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

It works by inhibiting the ODC protein, which in turn reduces the excessive enzyme activity caused by the mutated gene.

From Science Daily • Apr. 29, 2026

While the public markets have been burdened with excessive regulation, the private markets now often operate at the other extreme—without many basic protections that typical American investors might assume are a given.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 27, 2026

The next week we initiated our first go-slow strike on the island: we would work at less than half the speed we had before to protest the excessive and unfair demands.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Vocabulary lists containing excessive

The Bill of Rights

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Unit 2: Pivotal Words and Phrases

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