Synonyms for

Overload

Verb / ˈəʊvɜ:ˌləʊd / Another word for overload — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

an excessive amount of something

Synonyms & similar words

surcharge overburden clog overcharge excess surfeit glut superabundance oversupply overabundance overmuch extra redundancy overstock overflow overexertion overtaxing overburden overwork exaggeration saturation surplus overindulgence

Synonyms by register

Formal

overwhelm inundate supercharge overburden

Informal

swamp snow under bury bogged down

Literary

deluge engulf suffocate

Antonyms

underload lighten ease reduce lessen unburden

Common collocations

  • overload the system
  • overload the circuit
  • overload the senses
  • overload of work
  • overload the brain
  • overload the engine
  • overload the market

Word family

noun overload
verb overload
adjective overloaded

Usage note

Primarily used in technical contexts (e.g., electrical, computing) or to describe excessive demands on a person's capacity. Avoid using 'overload' for simple excess; 'too much' or 'excessive' might be more appropriate.

Example sentences

  1. She had an overload of toys in her room.
  2. The truck was carrying an overload of cargo.
  3. I cannot handle an overload of sugar.
  4. The power surge caused an overload and the computer shut down.
  5. She had an overload of emotions and began to cry.

Quotes

  • An overload of information creates a poverty of attention. - Herbert A. Simon
  • To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment. - Ralph Waldo Emerson
  • Overloading the brain with too much information can actually be counterproductive. - Daniel Levitin

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