as in surplus
the state or an instance of going beyond what is usual, proper, or needed
the song already borders on the maudlin—the addition of a syrupy string accompaniment would just be overkill
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of overkill
Infectious disease experts said this plan was overkill because health departments already keep tabs on patients with infectious diseases such as tuberculosis using less onerous methods like regular phone calls.
—
Brenda Goodman,
CNN Money,
29 May 2026
But in Steyer’s case, his recent unrelenting attack ads against surging Becerra — now his chief campaign rival — are disturbing and seem like overkill.
—
Los Angeles Times,
25 May 2026
For most players, this piece of kit is likely overkill.
—
New Atlas,
23 May 2026
However, Origin may be overkill for beginners or anyone looking for a basic budgeting app with a minimal interface.
—
Amy Deyoung,
USA Today,
20 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for overkill
Brenda Goodman,
CNN Money,
29 May 2026
But in Steyer’s case, his recent unrelenting attack ads against surging Becerra — now his chief campaign rival — are disturbing and seem like overkill.
—
Los Angeles Times,
25 May 2026
For most players, this piece of kit is likely overkill.
—
New Atlas,
23 May 2026
However, Origin may be overkill for beginners or anyone looking for a basic budgeting app with a minimal interface.
—
Amy Deyoung,
USA Today,
20 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for overkill
Recent Examples of Synonyms for overkill
Noun
-
In 2022, California recorded a nearly $100 billion surplus, saved just $10 billion in its rainy day fund and then spent the rest.
-
Those include requiring property owners to file a claim with the government for any surplus proceeds from the tax sale.
Noun
-
Attems Sauvignon Blanc, Venezia Giulia IGT, $20 Attems offers a slightly riper, more generous introduction to Friulian sauvignon blanc, but never veers into tropical excess.
-
Working with 5 to 6 pieces at a time, remove fish from batter, allowing excess to drip back into bowl, and add to hot oil, briefly dragging fish along surface of oil to prevent sticking.
Noun
-
In 2002, a city councilor promoting the Pittsburgh Triathlon had to swap the swim leg for a bike leg after an overflow.
-
According to Cyril Xaba, the mayor of Durban, the new facility is being set up in response to a sharp rise in arrivals at the Sherwood site, and would serve as an overflow site to reduce overcrowding.
Cite this Entry
“Overkill.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overkill. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
