excessive

[ik-ses-iv]

adjective

1. going beyond the usual, necessary, or proper limit or degree; characterized by excess.

   excessive charges; excessive criticism.

   Synonyms: unreasonable, exorbitant, inordinate, extravagant, immoderate
   Antonyms: reasonable

excessive

/ ɪkˈsɛsɪv /

adjective

1. exceeding the normal or permitted extents or limits; immoderate; inordinate

Other Word Forms

• excessively adverb
• excessiveness noun
• nonexcessive adjective
• nonexcessiveness noun
• quasi-excessive adjective
• unexcessive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of excessive¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English ( excess, -ive ); replacing Middle English excessif, from Middle French

Example Sentences

The law “will be essential to holding accountable those who use excessive force against members of the public,” Bonner wrote.

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Scott’s often been accused in the past of doing “too much,” excessive adornment, but in this context, all of it works.

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However, Clearsprings' profits are not excessive for the size of its contract and the sector it is working in.

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The Meter Operation Code of Practice Agreement says the plastic casing can "in some circumstances become conductive leading to a risk of electric shock and/or excessive heat".

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Common signs are an excessive need for attention and reassurance, according to psychologist and author Suzy Reading.

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Related Words

• disproportionate 
• enormous 
• exaggerated 
• exorbitant 
• extra 
• extravagant 
• extreme 
• inordinate 
• needless 
• redundant 
• steep 
• superfluous 
• unconscionable 
• undue 
• unreasonable