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.

There should be no single, all-powerful character around which a democracy revolves, so it is considered unseemly to lavish excessive finery on the head of state.

From Slate • Jun. 11, 2026

Broadly, the schools accuse Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat and TikTok of being intentionally designed to be addictive, which has allegedly harmed children mentally and emotionally through their excessive use of platforms.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

Measures have been imposed by the regulators to try and curb excessive volatility, and they were triggered both on the way down Monday and then again on the way back up again Tuesday.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 9, 2026

And excessive volatility can scare off some investors.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

It was not: the rooms of the old house rang on winter nights with male cheer, and occasionally a shotgun would be let off, not in anger but in excessive high spirits.

From "Go Set a Watchman: A Novel" by Harper Lee

Vocabulary lists containing excessive

The Bill of Rights

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Unit 2: Pivotal Words and Phrases

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

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

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!