excess

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a quantity much larger than is needed
  2. noun immoderation as a consequence of going beyond sufficient or permitted limits
  3. noun the state of being more than full

Etymology

From Middle English exces (“excess, ecstasy”), from Old French exces, from Latin excessus (“a going out, loss of self-possession”), from excedere, excessum (“to go out, go beyond”). See exceed.

In classic literature

Synonyms

surplus, surplusage, nimiety

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