excessive

ex-ces-sive · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    More than is necessary, normal, or desirable; immoderate.

  2. 2.

    Going beyond what is reasonable or appropriate.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    excessive force — more physical force than necessary
  • •
    excessive drinking — consuming too much alcohol
  • •
    excessive heat — dangerously high temperatures
  • •
    excessive speed — driving faster than safe or legal

Related words

Antonyms: minimal, moderate, reasonable, restrained
See also: excess, extravagant, extreme, immoderate
Synonyms: disproportionate, extravagant, extreme, immoderate, unreasonable

Etymology

From Latin "excessus" (departure, excess) + "-ive," through Old French "excessif." First used in English in the 15th century.