overfeed

verb

over·​feed ˌō-vər-ˈfēd 

overfed ˌō-vər-ˈfed  ; overfeeding

transitive verb

: to feed to excess

intransitive verb

: to eat to excess

Examples of overfeed in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The goal is steady feeding without overfeeding, which can damage the tree. — Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Oct. 2025

Follow the label directions on the product to prevent overfeeding, which can burn the roots of the plants. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 28 May 2026

Signs of overfeeding include white crust on the pot or media, brown, scorched leaf tips, mushy or blackened roots, stunted growth, lack of blooms, and leaf drop. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 19 Jan. 2026

However, frequent consumption of sweets and sugary drinks can overfeed harmful bacteria in a way that neither saliva nor helpful bacteria can overcome. — Jacqueline Abranches, The Conversation, 2 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Rhymes for overfeed

• aniseed
• centipede
• cottonseed
• disagreed
• ganymede
• guaranteed
• intercede
• overspeed
• pedigreed
• refereed
• supercede
• supersede

Kids Definition

overfeed

verb

over·​feed ˌō-vər-ˈfēd 

overfed -ˈfed  ; overfeeding

: to feed or eat to excess

Medical Definition

overfeed

verb

over·​feed ˌō-vər-ˈfēd 

overfed -ˈfed  ; overfeeding

transitive verb

: to feed to excess

intransitive verb

: to eat to excess