overuse

1 of 2

verb

over·​use ˌō-vər-ˈyüz 

overused; overusing

transitive verb

: 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

overuse

2 of 2

noun

over·​use ˌō-vər-ˈyüs 

: 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

Synonyms

Verb

• stereotype
• overexpose
• popularize
• vulgarize
• exhaust
• overdo
• bore

Examples of overuse in a Sentence

Verb

she had overused that joke to the point where it was eliciting groans and not guffaws

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

Shea butter and cocoa butter are thick and great ingredients that generally can’t be overused. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 25 Oct. 2025

However, both can cause side effects if overused. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 20 Oct. 2025

Noun

Andrews sees the overuse of AI tools as one of the subtle challenges facing young professionals. —Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 27 Oct. 2025

However, overuse can cause dryness and irritation or strip your hair's natural oils, making your hair more prone to damage. —Heidi Cope, Health, 27 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1607, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1612, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for overuse

• avenues
• barbecues
• cockatoos
• interviews
• kangaroos
• obliquus
• overshoes
• overviews
• residues
• revenues
• tyrannus
• accrues

Kids Definition

overuse

1 of 2 verb

over·​use

-ˈyüz

: to use too much

an overused phrase

overuse

2 of 2 noun

over·​use

-ˈyüs

: too much use