Overkill — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
Meaning & Definition of Overkill
Overkill (verb)
- to obliterate (a target) with more nuclear force than required
Overkill (noun)
- a destructive capacity greatly exceeding that required for a given target
- an excess of something (such as a quantity or an action) beyond what is required or suitable for a particular purpose
- killing in excess of what is intended or required
Overkill (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
-
the state or an instance of going beyond what is usual, proper, or needed
"the song already borders on the maudlin—the addition of a syrupy string accompaniment would just be overkill"
Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Overkill
The most common words with a similar meaning to Overkill:
Antonyms & Opposite Words for Overkill
Words with the opposite meaning of Overkill:
Near Antonyms of Overkill
Word Forms of Overkill
Inflections: overkilled, overkilling, overkills
Origin & Etymology of Overkill
First known use: 1957
Frequently Asked Questions about Overkill
What does "Overkill" mean?
"Overkill" means to obliterate (a target) with more nuclear force than required. As an a verb and a noun, it is defined as: to obliterate (a target) with more nuclear force than required.
What is another word for "Overkill"?
Other words for "Overkill" include bellyful, excess, fat, overabundance, overage, overflow, overmuch and overplus. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Overkill" you intend.
What are different ways to say "Overkill"?
There are 25 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Overkill". Common alternatives include bellyful, excess, fat, overabundance, overage, overflow, overmuch, overplus, oversupply and plethora.
What is the opposite of "Overkill"?
Antonyms of "Overkill" include deficiency, deficit, insufficiency and undersupply. Near antonyms include dearth, lack, scarcity and want.
How do you use "Overkill" in a sentence?
Examples of "Overkill" in a sentence: "the song already borders on the maudlin—the addition of a syrupy string accompaniment would just be overkill".
Is "Overkill" a noun, verb, or adjective?
"Overkill" can be used as a verb and a noun, depending on the context.
How do you pronounce "Overkill"?
"Overkill" is pronounced /ˌō-vər-ˈkil/ as a verb and /ˈō-vər-ˌkil/ as a noun and divided into syllables as over·kill.
What is the origin of the word "Overkill"?
First known use: 1957.