Overcrowd Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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overcrowd

[หŒoสŠ.vษ™rหˆkraสŠd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

public transport

To fill something with too many people or things, so that there is not enough space for everyone.

Synonyms

cram, jam, pack.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
overcrowd

Used when describing a situation where a space is filled with too many people or things, often causing discomfort or inconvenience. It usually has a negative connotation.

  • The subway was overcrowded during rush hour.
  • The school is overcrowded, making it difficult for students to learn.
cram

Typically used to describe filling a space with too much, often quickly or in a hurried manner. It can also describe studying intensely for a short period before an exam.

  • We had to cram all our luggage into the tiny car.
  • She crammed for her exams all night and barely slept.
pack

Used when referring to putting things closely together, often in an organized manner or fitting as much as possible into a space. It can also refer to preparing luggage for travel.

  • You need to pack your clothes neatly in the suitcase.
  • The stadium was packed with excited fans.
jam

Often used to describe a situation where things or people are stuck closely together, sometimes to the point where no movement is possible. It can also refer to a mechanical blockage.

  • The traffic was jammed due to an accident on the highway.
  • I can't open the door; it's jammed.

Examples of usage

  • The train was overcrowded with commuters during rush hour.
  • The bus station was overcrowded with tourists trying to get to the city center.
Context #2 | Noun

urban areas

A situation in which there are too many people or things in a particular area, making it difficult for everyone to move around freely.

Synonyms

congestion, crowding, jam.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
overcrowd

Used when talking about a place or event that has too many people, making it difficult for people to move around comfortably.

  • The concert was so popular that it began to overcrowd the stadium
congestion

Typically used to describe places where there is a high volume of traffic, people, or data, leading to blockages and delays. Often used for traffic or communication networks.

  • There was heavy congestion on the highway during the morning rush hour
crowding

Refers to the state of being too full of people, often making a place uncomfortable. It can be used in various contexts including public transport, events, or small spaces.

  • Crowding in the subway during peak hours makes the commute uncomfortable
jam

Most often used to describe traffic situations where movement is severely limited due to too many vehicles. Can also be used metaphorically for other types of blockages.

  • We were stuck in a traffic jam for over an hour
  • His desk is in a bit of a jam with all the papers piled up

Examples of usage

  • The city streets were a scene of overcrowd, with cars bumper to bumper.
  • The park became overcrowded during the music festival.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Urban Planning

  • Overcrowding is a significant issue in urban areas, often leading to increased pollution and strain on resources.
  • Some cities implement laws and regulations to manage population density and improve living conditions.
  • Compact living arrangements, while efficient, can lead to challenges in social dynamics and personal space.

Public Health

  • Overcrowded spaces can contribute to the rapid spread of illnesses, as seen during pandemics.
  • Public health experts often recommend limiting capacity in enclosed areas to ensure safety and wellbeing.
  • Studies show that crowded living conditions can lead to increased stress and mental health issues.

Psychology

  • Being in overcrowded areas can trigger feelings of anxiety or discomfort due to lack of personal space.
  • Crowding affects our mood, where excessive density can lead to irritability and lower overall happiness.
  • Human beings naturally seek personal space, and overcrowding disrupts this balance, leading to stress.

Literature

  • In literature, overcrowding often serves as a metaphor for societal issues, reflecting on how a society can be overwhelmed by its own population.
  • Many dystopian novels depict overcrowded settings to illustrate the consequences of unchecked growth.
  • Authors use settings to evoke feelings of claustrophobia and tension, enhancing the narrative impact.

Origin of 'overcrowd'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the combination of 'over', meaning too much, and 'crowd', which means a large group of people.
  • First recorded use was in the late 16th century, highlighting early concerns about packed environments.
  • Similar terms in different languages reflect the same problem, indicating a universal experience across cultures.

The word 'overcrowd' originated in the 19th century, combining 'over-' (excessive) and 'crowd'. It reflects the growing urbanization and population density in cities during the Industrial Revolution. Overcrowding remains a significant issue in modern society, particularly in metropolitan areas.


See also: crowded, crowdedness, crowding, overcrowded, overcrowding.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,274, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.