overuse

1 of 2

verb

over·​use ˌō-vər-ˈyüz 

overused; overusing

transitive verb

: to use (something) too much : to use (something) excessively or too frequently

a word that has been greatly overused

At best, gatekeepers can keep everyone from overusing costly high-tech treatments when primary care is enough.

—Marilyn Chase

overuse

2 of 2

noun

over·​use ˌō-vər-ˈyüs 

: too much use : excessive or too frequent use

the overuse of antibiotics

athletes suffering from overuse injuries

His overuse of four-letter words—often a dozen per page—may accurately mirror a macho world where cussing is cool, but it is tedious to read.

—Frederick Kaufman

Synonyms

Verb

• hackney
• overexpose
• stereotype
• vulgarize

Examples of overuse in a Sentence

Verb

she had overused that joke to the point where it was eliciting groans and not guffaws

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

However, some companies will overuse AI, which will inevitably result in the destruction of trust for them, and ultimately, business failure. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024

Before adding another one, remember that overusing them can cause health and skin problems in the long term. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 4 Nov. 2024

Noun

Others say overuse of her skill likely impacted Callas' range. —Declan Gallagher, EW.com, 12 Dec. 2024

The word has become so diluted through overuse that it’s lost its power. —Renae Gregoire, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1607, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1612, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

overuse

1 of 2 verb

over·​use

-ˈyüz

: to use too much

an overused phrase

overuse

2 of 2 noun

over·​use

-ˈyüs

: too much use