overuse

[oh-ver-yooz, oh-ver-yoos]

verb (used with object)

overused, overusing 

1. to use too much or too often.

   to overuse an expression.

noun

1. excessive use.

   to strain one's voice through overuse.

Word History and Origins

Origin of overuse¹

First recorded in 1670–80; over- + use

Example Sentences

Alessio is one of a handful of designers pushing back against its overuse.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

It has long been overused, with so much water taken out that for decades the river has seldom met the sea, transforming once-vast wetlands in Mexico into stretches of dry sand.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The Colorado has long been overused, with so much water taken out that for decades the river has seldom met the sea, transforming once-vast wetlands in Mexico into stretches of dry sand.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It can seem an overused device, but it often produces good results, and, based on the two episodes out for review, the results here, rich in slapstick and silliness, are very good.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It's worth also thinking about your caffeine consumption more broadly - consuming lots of it every day can cause a caffeine overuse headache and if you suddenly stop, you might get a withdrawal headache.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• exaggerate 
• overestimate 
• overplay 
• overrate 
• overreach 
• overstate 
• overvalue