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

Beijing’s market regulator summoned five major Chinese e-commerce platforms, including Alibaba and JD.com over issues including excessive competition, sending their shares down 5.5% and 3.4%, respectively.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

Somerset Council wrote to the regulator asking for changes and arguing the rules are excessive and no longer proportionate.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

And excessive volatility can scare off some investors.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

Enquiries based on this premise are bound to conclude that the claims made on behalf of well-founded beliefs are excessive because that conclusion is built into the methodology.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton

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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