overexpectation

noun

plural overexpectations
: unreasonably or unrealistically hopeful expectation : the act or state of expecting too much in a given situation
They are bracing voters for a long and perhaps difficult hike from here to prosperity, cautioning them against overexpectations.Bob Deans
… there's certainly no overexpectation or complacency.Graham Henry

Word History

First Known Use

1634, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overexpectation was in 1634

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Cite this Entry

“Overexpectation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overexpectation. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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