Overload: meaning, definitions and examples

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overload

 

[ ˈoʊvərˌloʊd ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

in computing

Overload refers to a situation when a computer system or network receives more traffic or data than it can handle effectively. This can lead to slow performance, crashes, or even system failure.

Synonyms

excess, overburden, overwhelm

Examples of usage

  • The website crashed due to overload of visitors during the sale.
  • The server experienced an overload of requests, causing delays in processing.
Context #2 | Verb

in the workplace

To overload means to assign someone more work or responsibilities than they can manage efficiently. This can result in stress, burnout, and decreased productivity.

Synonyms

burden, overwhelm, overwork

Examples of usage

  • The manager tends to overload his team with tasks, leading to employee dissatisfaction.
  • If you overload yourself with projects, you may end up sacrificing quality for quantity.

Translations

Translations of the word "overload" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sobrecarga

🇮🇳 अधिक भार

🇩🇪 Überlastung

🇮🇩 kelebihan beban

🇺🇦 перевантаження

🇵🇱 przeciążenie

🇯🇵 過負荷 (かふか)

🇫🇷 surcharge

🇪🇸 sobrecarga

🇹🇷 aşırı yük

🇰🇷 과부하 (gwabuha)

🇸🇦 زيادة الحمل

🇨🇿 přetížení

🇸🇰 preťaženie

🇨🇳 超负荷 (chāo fùhè)

🇸🇮 preobremenitev

🇮🇸 ofhleðsla

🇰🇿 асыра жүктеме

🇬🇪 ზედმეტი დატვირთვა

🇦🇿 artıq yükləmə

🇲🇽 sobrecarga

Etymology

The term 'overload' originated in the mid-18th century, combining 'over' and 'load'. It was initially used in a literal sense to describe putting too much weight or pressure on something. In the context of computing, the concept of overload emerged with the growth of technology and the increasing demand for processing power. Today, overload is a common phenomenon in various fields, highlighting the importance of balance and efficiency.

See also: download, downloader, load, loaded, offload, unload, upload.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,169, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.