superfluous

adjective

su̇-ˈpər-flü-əs How to pronounce superfluous (audio)
Definition of superfluousnext
as in extra
being over what is needed cleared off all the superfluous stuff on his desk to make room for the new computer

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 superfluous Cameron relented, taking out his scissors and cutting a few superfluous scenes, but the film still wasn't quite at the magic mark. — Sergio Pereira, Space.com, 19 July 2026 Such language is not only superfluous but also perpetuates toxic stereotypes, especially when news outlets regularly omit similar ethnic identifiers for criminal groups led by individuals who belong to other ethnic backgrounds. — Chicago Tribune, 10 May 2026 This was the superfluous lie, the gratuitous lie—the lie that did not need to be told but was told only as a demonstration of power. — Literary Hub, 27 Apr. 2026 Mocktails arrived in steady procession, each one carefully assembled, none superfluous. — Chas Newkey-Burden, TheWeek, 24 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for superfluous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for superfluous
  1. extra
  2. excess
  3. surplus
  4. spare
  5. unnecessary
Adjective
  • It was set to expire this summer prior to an extension that gives both sides an extra year to reach a new deal.
    — DJ Simmons July 27, Charlotte Observer, 27 July 2026
  • For families Families are welcome and extra beds can be added, but bear in mind the elevation, rocky terrain and malaria risk.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 July 2026
Definition of extra
Adjective
  • Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood pressure and managing diabetes also reduce cardiovascular risk, as does stopping smoking and limiting excess alcohol.
    — Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 27 July 2026
  • In other words, Medicare has been willing to pay for the costly consequences of excess weight—while refusing to pay for drugs that could address the underlying disease.
    — Sally Pipes, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026
Definition of excess
Adjective
  • The oceans have experienced historic warming over the past decade, soaking up more than 90% of the surplus heat accumulating in the climate system, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
    — Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 24 July 2026
  • Carnegie’s Gospel of Wealth, published in 1889, argued that any surplus fortune held past death represents a moral failure, not a legacy.
    — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 22 July 2026
Definition of surplus
Adjective
  • The remodel emphasized spa-style amenities — including a Finnish sauna, steam room, a fitness center, and hot and cold plunge pools inspired by Therme Vals, the Swiss spa known for its spare, stone-forward minimalism.
    — David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 25 July 2026
  • Lacroix can look to be the spare man, cutting out danger with tackles and interceptions (front-foot defending).
    — Mark Carey, New York Times, 25 July 2026
Definition of spare
Adjective
  • Kennedy has publicly backed wider access to peptides, casting restrictions as unnecessary barriers that may push patients to the grey market.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 24 July 2026
  • While board member David Westbrook said a moratorium was unnecessary, many were in agreement with the crowd of concerned parents.
    — Julianna Mejia July 23, Kansas City Star, 23 July 2026
Definition of unnecessary

Browse Nearby Words

superfluity
superfluous
superfluousness
See all Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Superfluous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/superfluous. Accessed 31 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on superfluous

Nglish: Translation of superfluous for Spanish Speakers

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