overly — To an excessive degree; more than is reasonable, appropriate, or desirable.
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: To an excessive degree; more than is reasonable, appropriate, or desirable.
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈoʊvərli/
Example Sentences
- My mom is overly protective - she still cuts my sandwich crusts and I'm 25!
- The director was overly demanding during the project.
- Don't be overly modest about your achievements.
overly
ADVERB[/ˈoʊvərli/]
To an excessive degree; more than is reasonable, appropriate, or desirable.

To an excessive degree; more than is reasonable, appropriate, or desirable.

When scholarly passion becomes overly excessive!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Middle English, combining 'over' (meaning above or beyond) with the adverbial suffix '-ly'. The word developed to express the idea of going beyond what is appropriate or necessary.
Breakdown
over- (beyond, excessively) + -ly (adverb suffix meaning 'in a manner of')
🎵Rhyme
📝Examples
“My mom is overly protective - she still cuts my sandwich crusts and I'm 25!”
“The director was overly demanding during the project.”
“Don't be overly modest about your achievements.”
“He's overly confident that he'll win the lottery every week.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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