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

The kernels should develop dark golden spots without becoming overly blackened. — Staff, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026

This is not exclusively a Ronaldo issue, and simply swapping him out for Goncalo Ramos would be an overly simplistic fix. — Mark Carey, New York Times, 2 July 2026

Avoid overly complex rules, because most likely the manager, board, and homeowners alike will not remember all the technicalities in a lengthy complicated rule set. — Kelly G. Richardson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 June 2026

This is where overly conservative portfolios can become problematic. — Andrew Rosen, Forbes.com, 2 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