excess

Definition

The state of surpassing or going beyond a limit; the state of being beyond sufficiency, necessity, or duty; more than what is usual or proper.

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.

Example Sentences

• "The excess of heavy water was given away to the neighbouring country."
• "To gild refined gold, to paint the lily, To throw a perfume on the violet, […] Is wasteful and ridiculous excess."
• "That kills me with excess of grief, this with excess of joy."

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