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Overstocked: meaning, definitions and examples

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overstocked

 

[oʊvΙ™rˈstɑːkt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

inventory management

Overstocked refers to a situation where there is an excess of inventory compared to the demand. This typically occurs when a company orders too much of a product or when sales forecasts are inaccurate. Excess inventory can lead to increased storage costs and can negatively impact a business's cash flow.

Synonyms

excess, overabundant, surplus.

Examples of usage

  • The store was overstocked on winter clothing.
  • Our warehouse is overstocked with items that are not selling.
  • The company realized they were overstocked after the holiday season ended.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The prefix 'over-' comes from Old English meaning 'excessively' or 'more than usual'.
  • The word 'stock' traces back to Middle English, which meant a supply or inventory of goods.

Business

  • Retailers often face overstock situations due to forecasting errors or unexpected drops in demand.
  • Overstock can lead to financial losses for businesses as they incur costs for storing unsold items.
  • Many stores use clearance sales to reduce overstock, making room for new items while trying to recoup losses.

Psychology

  • Having too much stuff can lead to feelings of overwhelm and anxiety, as it becomes difficult to make choices.
  • Decision fatigue can occur when consumers are faced with too many overstocked items, causing them to avoid making a decision altogether.
  • Clutter from overstock can affect mental well-being, leading to reduced productivity and increased stress.

Environmental Impact

  • Overproduction leading to overstocked inventory contributes to waste as unsold goods may end up in landfills.
  • Some companies are exploring sustainable practices to manage overstock, such as donating unsold items to charities.
  • Circular economy initiatives aim to reduce overstock by encouraging repair, reuse, and recycling of products instead of disposal.

Pop Culture

  • The name 'Overstock.com' came to prominence as an online retailer focused on selling excess inventory.
  • In television and film, overstock sales are often used as plot devices, showcasing the chaos and humor of unsold items flooding a store.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,598, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.