overly

adverb

over·​ly ˈō-vər-lē How to pronounce overly (audio)
Synonyms of overlynext
: to an excessive degree : too

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Little emphasized the need to ease property taxes in a letter accompanying his signature but criticized Moyle’s approach as rushed and overly complex. Mark Dee march 6, Idaho Statesman, 7 Mar. 2026 This oversized one drapes nicely over everything from a simple T-shirt and trousers to a midi dress, giving the whole look a bit more presence without feeling overly structured. Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 6 Mar. 2026 And that can make heavier or overly matte concealers cling to texture. Taryn Brooke, Glamour, 6 Mar. 2026 Government officials have for months criticized Anthropic for allegedly being overly concerned with AI safety. Dylan Butts, CNBC, 5 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overly

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overly was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Overly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overly. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

overly

adverb
over·​ly ˈō-vər-lē How to pronounce overly (audio)
: to an excessive degree : too

More from Merriam-Webster on overly

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