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overuse

verb over·use \ ˌō-vər-ˈyüz \
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Definition of overuse

overused; overusing
: to use (something) too much : to use (something) excessively or too frequently
  • a word that has been greatly overused
  • At best, gatekeepers can keep everyone from overusing costly high-tech treatments when primary care is enough.
  • —Marilyn Chase

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First Known Use of overuse

1607

in the meaning defined above

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overuse Synonyms

Synonyms

hackney, overexpose, stereotype, vulgarize;

Related Words

bore, exhaust, overdo;

coarsen;

deplete, jade, tire, wear out;

popularize;

2

overuse

noun over·use \ ˌō-vər-ˈyüs \

Definition of overuse

: too much use : excessive or too frequent use
  • the overuse of antibiotics
  • athletes suffering from overuse injuries
  • His overuse of four-letter words—often a dozen per page—may accurately mirror a macho world where cussing is cool, but it is tedious to read.
  • —Frederick Kaufman

See overuse defined for English-language learners

First Known Use of overuse

1612

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year
NEW! Time Traveler

Learn More about overuse

  1. See words that rhyme with overuse Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for overuse Spanish Central: Translation of overuse Nglish: Translation of overuse for Spanish speakers

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