Overflow: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when there is too much of something, usually liquids that spill over the edges of a container.

• The bathwater started to overflow when I forgot to turn off the tap
• The river overflowed during the heavy rains

Used to describe more of something than is necessary or allowed, often implying waste.

• There's an excess of sugar in his diet
• The store had an excess of inventory after the holiday season

Describes an amount that is more than what is needed; often used in financial or resource contexts.

• The company had a surplus of funds at the end of the fiscal year
• Farmers had a surplus of crops after a bountiful harvest

Implies having way more than is needed, often used in a slightly negative or critical sense.

• There is an overabundance of advertising in today's media
• An overabundance of rain can lead to flooding

Identical to the first 'overflow' example but confirming there is no difference; this repetition might be a mistake.

• This is a duplicate entry

Typically used when liquid or other substances go beyond the limits of their container, also metaphorical for situations spreading into other areas.

• Milk began to spill over the edge of the glass
• The argument at work spilled over into their personal lives

Describes a situation where liquid or emotions are about to spill over the edge of a container or a person is about to express strong emotions.

• Her eyes brimmed over with tears of joy
• The pot brims over when it reaches boiling point

Used to describe a large amount of water covering an area that is usually dry, or metaphorically for an overwhelming influx of something.

• The heavy rain caused the river to flood the town
• She felt a flood of relief after hearing the good news