Definition of inordinatenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word inordinate different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of inordinate are excessive, exorbitant, extravagant, extreme, and immoderate. While all these words mean "going beyond a normal limit," inordinate implies an exceeding of the limits dictated by reason or good judgment.

inordinate pride

When is excessive a more appropriate choice than inordinate?

The words excessive and inordinate can be used in similar contexts, but excessive implies an amount or degree too great to be reasonable or acceptable.

excessive punishment

When could exorbitant be used to replace inordinate?

The words exorbitant and inordinate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, exorbitant implies a departure from accepted standards regarding amount or degree.

exorbitant prices

When can extravagant be used instead of inordinate?

The meanings of extravagant and inordinate largely overlap; however, extravagant implies an indifference to restraints imposed by truth, prudence, or good taste.

extravagant claims for the product

Where would extreme be a reasonable alternative to inordinate?

Although the words extreme and inordinate have much in common, extreme may imply an approach to the farthest limit possible or conceivable but commonly means only to a notably high degree.

extreme shyness

When is it sensible to use immoderate instead of inordinate?

The synonyms immoderate and inordinate are sometimes interchangeable, but immoderate implies lack of desirable or necessary restraint.

immoderate spending

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of inordinate So, too, is the idea that an inordinate number of these conspiratorial events come true. Niela Orr, Vulture, 13 Jan. 2026 The hero’s antic flirtations with a French maiden drag on at inordinate length, leaving an organist little room for creative invention. Alex Ross, New Yorker, 22 Dec. 2025 This was an inordinate amount of openings. Tom Murphy, Arkansas Online, 6 Dec. 2025 The magazine was full of lovable weirdos who knew inordinate amounts about cuneiform or animal husbandry and were prone to causing collisions in the hallway because their faces were buried in paper proofs. Ismail Ibrahim, Harpers Magazine, 23 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for inordinate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inordinate
Adjective
  • It was ruled a Flagrant 1 excessive foul, but not a dangerous Flagrant 2 foul, so Jamerson was not ejected from the game.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2026
  • Taking vitamin D alongside a multivitamin is generally safe for most people, but understanding dosing, absorption, and potential risks is important to avoid excessive intake.
    Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 19 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Massie’s comments shined a new spotlight on Les Wexner, the former owner of Victoria’s Secret, who is one of the most mysterious figures in Epstein’s orbit – a key player in helping the financier’s rise to extreme wealth, whose motivations and ties to Epstein have long been a source of speculation.
    Curt Devine, CNN Money, 18 Feb. 2026
  • That means potential payoffs but also extreme danger.
    James Ward, USA Today, 18 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The seven-time All-Star made his first seven shots with five 3-pointers amid raucous cheers from the extra-steep supporters’ section called The Wall behind one basket at this futuristic 18-month-old arena.
    Greg Beacham, Twin Cities, 16 Feb. 2026
  • The seven-time All-Star made his first seven shots with five 3-pointers amid raucous cheers from the extra-steep supporters' section called The Wall behind one basket at this futuristic 18-month-old arena.
    CBS News, CBS News, 16 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Your day-to-day life would be insane!
    Denise Petski, Deadline, 18 Feb. 2026
  • Defense lawyers had argued during the trial that Taylor was legally insane at the time of the offense.
    Claire Osborn, Austin American Statesman, 18 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • For Araminta, a woman who has always lived within society’s strictures, Sophie is just another rule to follow — and Leung does so with sneering menace, extravagant goth gowns, and a purposefully maternal approach.
    Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 19 Feb. 2026
  • These experiences are undeniably extravagant—and also fleeting.
    Melissa Petro, Travel + Leisure, 19 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Inordinate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inordinate. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on inordinate

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