overstimulate

verb

over·​stim·​u·​late ˌō-vər-ˈstim-yə-ˌlāt 

overstimulated; overstimulating

transitive verb

: to stimulate to an excessive or abnormal degree

The ongoing presence of HIV overstimulates B cells, which are abundant in the lymph nodes, and keeps them in a state of chronic activation.

—Robert R. Redfield et al.

… a monetary system … that keeps government from overstimulating demand through excessive money creation.

—George Melloan

see also overstimulated entry 1

overstimulation

ˌō-vər-ˌstim-yə-ˈlā-shən 

noun

plural overstimulations

In fact, too much stability and routine may bore such a horse—and boredom can be just as stressful as overstimulation.

—Robert W. Bell, PhD

Examples of overstimulate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Even the ads that are supposedly okay for kids can be overstimulating and aggressive, so try to be vigilant on those, too. — Emily Palmer Heller, Vulture, 21 Oct. 2026

Unlike video games, these toys had no bright screens to distract and overstimulate developing eyeballs. — Jordan Minor, PC Magazine, 5 Oct. 2026

Simple activities or routines at a treatment center could overstimulate Pike and set off a cycle of meltdowns and punishments. — Joseph Shapiro, NPR, 3 Oct. 2026

You may simply be overstimulated, tired, or craving time without expectations. — Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 20 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1801, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for overstimulate

• borosilicate
• decontaminate
• deoxycholate
• deteriorate
• differentiate
• diisocyanate
• dinoflagellate
• excommunicate
• incapacitate
• insubordinate
• intercorporate
• interpenetrate