overly

adverb

over·​ly ˈō-vər-lē 

: to an excessive degree : too

Synonyms of overly

• too
• excessively
• unduly
• extremely

Examples of overly in a Sentence

These directions are overly complex.

She's overly sensitive to criticism.

They didn't seem overly concerned about the problem.

Recent Examples on the Web

Irritated by this youthful, overly eager visitor, Highsmith refuses the offer — unless, that is, Ridgeway can dream up the perfect murder along with her. — Pete Hammond, Deadline, 25 Sep. 2026

Meanwhile, tea tree extract keeps excess sebum at bay, fighting against an oil slick T-zone, leaving skin clean and balanced but not overly dry. — Kiana Murden, Vogue, 25 Sep. 2026

Some strategists think the market is getting ahead of itself — that yields now essentially are pricing in stronger economic growth and are overly sensitive to the vagaries of oil prices amid the ongoing tensions in the Middle East. — Jeff Cox, CNBC, 24 Sep. 2026

On occasion, overly exuberant executives have set up their successors for failure, by publicly pursuing audacious, sometimes inspiring, but ultimately unachievable goals as a part of their legacy. — Johannes Teyssen, Fortune, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for overly

• overlie

Kids Definition

overly

adverb

over·​ly ˈō-vər-lē 

: to an excessive degree : too