overkill

[oh-ver-kil]

noun

1. the capacity of a nation to destroy, by nuclear weapons, more of an enemy than would be necessary for a military victory.

2. an instance of such destruction.

3. an excess of what is required or suitable, as because of zeal or misjudgment.

overkill

/ ˈəʊvəˌkɪl /

noun

1. the capability to deploy more weapons, esp nuclear weapons, than is necessary to ensure military advantage

2. any capacity or treatment that is greater than that required or appropriate

Word History and Origins

Origin of overkill¹

An Americanism dating back to 1945–50; over- + kill ¹

Example Sentences

But to dislike it so much you deploy nuclear submarines feels like overkill.

From BBC

Some said it was overkill and called for more British artists to be added to the line-up.

From BBC

“To target the guy who just announced where the meetings are, is a bit of overkill,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

And he notes that, while Creative Home Engineering’s protective products may have been seen as overkill in the past, there’s been a recent tone shift in the panic industry.

From Salon

Even for its fans, the Fox overkill keeps audiences in a state of constant agitation, unable to think clearly — much less question the nonsense they're consuming.

From Salon

Related Words

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