OVERLY Synonyms: 71 Similar and Opposite Words

overly

adverb

ˈō-vər-lē

Definition of overly

as in too

beyond a normal or acceptable limit there's no need to be overly careful about the rough draft, since we'll polish it afterwards

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of overly The creamy pot formula uses light-diffusing powders to blur the look of discoloration and uneven texture, while its soft-focus finish keeps the undereye area from looking overly shiny. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 14 Aug. 2026 Once dismissed as overly sweet, hyper-feminine, or adolescent, the best gourmand fragrances have since evolved. — Danielle James, Vogue, 14 Aug. 2026 Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Bourbon Sour A few things to keep in mind for a sour that comes out balanced instead of boozy or overly sweet. — Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Aug. 2026 The Kospi's dependence on just a handful of semiconductor companies makes its bull run overly exposed to shifts in sentiment toward AI. — Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for overly

Adverb

The state senator from Greenwich says Lamont has been too loose with state budget policies and should have generated even more savings to ease Connecticut’s debt burdens.

— Keith M. Phaneuf, Hartford Courant, 14 Aug. 2026
That’s not too dissimilar from the path Mattingly took to the field Thursday.

— Dan Hayes, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026

Definition of too

Adverb

Jennette has accused Debra of monitoring her excessively, performing inappropriate physical exams and continuing to shower her well into her teenage years.

— Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 18 Aug. 2026
Gerek Wright won the blue ribbon for his paper on kyphosis, which causes the spine to curve excessively forward.

— Melinda Moore, Chicago Tribune, 17 Aug. 2026

Definition of excessively

Adverb

Some complained that the criteria unduly restricted American power.

— KORI SCHAKE, Foreign Affairs, 6 Aug. 2026
In addition, legislators in several states have introduced or passed bills that prohibit municipalities from unduly restricting homeowners who want to rent spare rooms to nonfamily members.

— Paula Span, Miami Herald, 29 July 2026

Definition of unduly

Adverb

Members of the search-and-rescue team who helped save the friends say the area is extremely treacherous and potentially dangerous even in daylight and perfect conditions.

— Charlie De Mar, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026
The Washington Capitals’ system is headlined by the highly creative Cole Hutson and the extremely competitive Ryan Leonard.

— Corey Pronman, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026

Definition of extremely

Browse Nearby Words

overloud

overly

overlying

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“Overly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overly. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of overly

adverb

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