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Synonyms

excessively

American  
[ik-ses-iv-lee] / ɪkˈsɛs ɪv li /

adverb

  1. in a way that goes beyond the usual, necessary, or proper limit or degree.

    Applying an excessively thick layer of mulch limits oxygen in the soil and can suffocate the plants.

Other Word Forms

  • nonexcessively adverb
  • quasi-excessively adverb
  • unexcessively adverb

Etymology

Origin of excessively

excessive ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Each target was legally viable, officials said, because it had a clear connection to Iran’s military and security forces and wouldn’t harm the civilian population excessively.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

When F. nucleatum was introduced directly into breast ducts, it caused metaplastic and hyperplastic lesions, noncancerous changes where cells either grow excessively or shift into a different type.

From Science Daily • Mar. 19, 2026

Kaley has been diagnosed with body dysmorphia, a condition where people worry excessively about their physical appearance.

From BBC • Feb. 26, 2026

Taxi drivers in Greece on Wednesday kicked off a two-day nationwide strike over new rules which they say excessively favour private vehicles for hire.

From Barron's • Feb. 18, 2026

It was a hot, muggy day, and I realized suddenly that the mare had been sweating excessively and needed water.

From This Side of Wild by Gary Paulsen

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.