overly

adverb

over·​ly ˈō-vər-lē How to pronounce overly (audio)
: to an excessive degree : too

Examples of overly in a Sentence

These directions are overly complex. She's overly sensitive to criticism. They didn't seem overly concerned about the problem.
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.
Watching his son evolve from a 4-star recruit out of Columbus High School in Miami to an eventual first-round pick out of Michigan State, Richardson doesn’t get too nervous or overly excited when Jase is on the court. Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 June 2025 This expectation seems overly pessimistic considering Crocs has grown NOPAT by 46% compounded annually over the last five years and 34% compounded annually over the last decade. David Trainer, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025 Composting in overly wet areas can slow down the composting process and lead to smelly compost. Locations that are exposed to strong winds can also be challenging to compost in and should be avoided if possible. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 June 2025 Industry leaders like JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon have argued current restrictions, instituted to prevent a repeat of the Global Financial Crisis, are overly onerous and prevent banks from providing liquidity during times of market stress. Greg McKenna, Fortune, 29 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for overly

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overly was before the 12th century

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Cite this Entry

“Overly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overly. Accessed 7 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

overly

adverb
over·​ly ˈō-vər-lē How to pronounce overly (audio)
: to an excessive degree : too

More from Merriam-Webster on overly

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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