overbuild

[ oh-ver-bild ]

verb (used with object)

, o·ver·built, o·ver·build·ing.

1. to erect too many buildings in (an area).
2. to cover or surmount with a building or structure.
3. to build (a structure) on too great or elaborate a scale.

verb (used without object)

, o·ver·built, o·ver·build·ing.

1. to erect too many buildings in an area.

overbuild

/ ˌəʊvəˈbɪld /

verb

1. to build over or on top of
2. to erect too many buildings in (an area)
3. to build too large or elaborately

Word History and Origins

Origin of overbuild¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; over- + build

Example Sentences

It’s important to start now so we can now produce at that kind of right level and not have to overbuild.

From Popular-Science

They are beginning to turn away the local and semi-local patrons by trying to overbuild around the resort and ruin what makes the mountain unique.

From Outside Online

That means we need to overbuild electricity systems to meet levels of demand that may occur only for a few hours of a few days a year.

From MIT Technology Review