overfeed

verb

over·​feed ˌō-vər-ˈfēd How to pronounce overfeed (audio)
overfed ˌō-vər-ˈfed How to pronounce overfeed (audio) ; overfeeding

transitive verb

: to feed to excess

intransitive verb

: to eat to excess

Examples of overfeed in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Napping after overfeeding on food is a dilemma many of us will be fortunate to face on Christmas Day. Robert Lea, Space.com, 18 Dec. 2024 However, they should always be given in moderation, because overfeeding your pet can lead to obesity, which causes diseases such as diabetes mellitus, arthritis, heart disease and even cancer. Maria Azzurra Volpe, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024 Most dogs would do anything for a treat, and while giving them a little snack is usually harmless, constantly overfeeding them can be detrimental to their health. Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 9 Dec. 2024 The goal is steady feeding without overfeeding, which can damage the tree. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for overfeed 

Word History

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of overfeed was in 1589

Dictionary Entries Near overfeed

Cite this Entry

“Overfeed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overfeed. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

overfeed

verb
over·​feed ˌō-vər-ˈfēd How to pronounce overfeed (audio)
overfed -ˈfed How to pronounce overfeed (audio) ; overfeeding
: to feed or eat to excess

Medical Definition

overfeed

verb
over·​feed ˌō-vər-ˈfēd How to pronounce overfeed (audio)
overfed -ˈfed How to pronounce overfeed (audio) ; overfeeding

transitive verb

: to feed to excess

intransitive verb

: to eat to excess

More from Merriam-Webster on overfeed

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!