overload

[oh-ver-lohd, oh-ver-lohd]

verb (used with object)

1. to load to excess; overburden.

   Don't overload the raft or it will sink.

noun

1. an excessive load.

overload

verb

1. (tr) to put too large a load on or in

noun

1. an excessive load

Word History and Origins

Origin of overload¹

First recorded in 1545–55; over- + load

Example Sentences

“In a world of tech overload, consumers are searching for something real.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Many of us are overloaded with technology in the office—if not on our laptops, then on our phones or in video meetings, with almost-constant updates and notifications nagging at us.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Arsenal dominated the first half partly because of this overload and Slot opted for a man-to-man press in the second half to fix this.

Read more on BBC

Sensory overload can be extremely destabilizing, so an autistic child may first need a quiet place with dim lighting to calm themselves, and extra time to process and form answers to providers’ questions.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Sixty-seven people were on board the overloaded boat when it capsized after its engine failed as it crossed the busy shipping route in August 2023.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• overburden 
• overwhelm