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 of overuse

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

Rights groups warn the measure, introduced in March 2025, is now being overused by authorities. —ABC News, 14 Apr. 2026

In some cases, overusing a fine-tooth comb could even backfire. —Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 14 Apr. 2026

Noun

Around 80% of the lake's decline is caused by water overuse, with the remaining portion attributable to climate change and drought, Abbott said. —Trevor Hughes, USA Today, 12 Apr. 2026

In one study, the perception by users that social media is addictive, due mainly to believing news media narratives, actually reduces self-efficacy and makes overuse more likely. —William Proctor, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 Apr. 2026

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