Overdesigned: meaning, definitions and examples
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overdesigned
[ ˌoʊvərdɪˈzaɪnd ]
design quality
Overdesigned refers to a product or object that has been made overly complex or elaborate, often resulting in diminishing returns in functionality or aesthetics. This term is frequently used in the context of design, architecture, and software, where simplicity is often preferred for usability and effectiveness.
Synonyms
excessively complex, overengineered, overly elaborate
Examples of usage
- The gadget feels overdesigned with too many unnecessary features.
- Her dress was so overdesigned that it overwhelmed her figure.
- The app's interface is overdesigned, making it difficult to navigate.
Etymology
The term 'overdesigned' is a compound word deriving from the prefix 'over-' meaning excessively or too much, and 'designed,' which comes from the Latin 'designare' meaning to mark out or outline. The use of 'over-' as a negative prefix has been common in English since the early 19th century, often suggesting excess and unintended consequences. The emergence of design as a formal discipline in the late 20th century, particularly in fields such as industrial design and software development, highlighted the pitfalls of excessive complexity. Designers began using the term to critique projects where the end product was burdened by superfluous elements that detracted from its purpose. Over time, the term has been adopted more widely in discussions about functionality and aesthetics in various domains, emphasizing the importance of balance between simplicity and detail.