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

Ehrlich said reducing overconsumption and addressing population growth would also help ease these challenges. —The Conversation, 16 Mar. 2026

Her art blends societal issues, such as overconsumption and climate change, with knowledge of art historical content. —Heide Janssen, Oc Register, 15 Mar. 2026

The campaign encourages consumers to allow their wardrobes to evolve through more qualitative and timeless secondhand options rather than firsthand overconsumption. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 12 Mar. 2026

Some people opt for a capsule wardrobe to make getting dressed easier, while others do so to avoid overconsumption. —Genevieve Cepeda, InStyle, 4 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for overconsumption

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