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

However, the category of pest has often provided an overly simple framework for targeting other animals for extermination, in many cases with serious ecological consequences. — Elan Abrell, The Conversation, 22 July 2026

The commission’s investigators did flag that the film distribution market would become overly concentrated due to Paramount’s longstanding joint venture with Universal, which goes under the name United International Pictures. — Gene Maddaus, Variety, 22 July 2026

Your hard work isn’t casual, so let people notice your accomplishments instead of being overly modest or pretending like recognition doesn’t matter, Scorpio. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 22 July 2026

People ultimately respond much more strongly to other people, not overly polished corporate messaging. — Valentina Drofa, Forbes.com, 22 July 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