overconsumption

noun

over·​con·​sump·​tion ˌō-vər-kən-ˈsəm(p)-shən 

: excessive consumption or use of something

the overconsumption of fossil fuels

overconsumption of alcohol

The flip side of deficient saving, of course, is overconsumption. At its peak in 1987, household expenditure as a percentage of national income was 74%, almost four percentage points above the highest levels reached during the previous two decades.

—Robert S. Gay

Examples of overconsumption in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Props continue to pile up onstage in a visual commentary on the waste of overconsumption. — Emily McClanathan, Chicago Tribune, 18 May 2026

The ultimate reward and happiness is never found in overconsumption, but in actions to improve our world. — Martin Shenkman, Forbes.com, 17 June 2026

And because of the high fiber content in the fruit's arils, overconsumption may cause digestive discomfort such as bloating and gas in some individuals. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 2 July 2026

Content creators such as @lottielashley and @heidiunhinged on Instagram promote awareness around fast fashion and overconsumption. — Quinn Rickett, Mercury News, 24 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for overconsumption

• assumption
• consumption
• presumption
• resumption
• subsumption
• gumption
• sumption