Overstuffing: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word combines 'over' meaning too much, and 'stuffing', which refers to the material used to fill something.
• It first appeared in the English language in the early 20th century, likely related to cooking and textile industries.

Culinary Arts

• In cooking, overstuffing can lead to uneven cooking or spilling out during preparation, such as in stuffed peppers.
• Chefs often emphasize the balance of flavors, suggesting that overstuffing can overpower the dish.

Psychology

• Overstuffing can metaphorically refer to emotional experiences, where an overload of feelings can lead to stress or anxiety.
• In cognitive psychology, overloading your brain with too much information at once can hinder retention and understanding.

Fashion & Textile

• In the fashion world, overstuffing can refer to upholstery techniques that affect the comfort and appearance of furniture or clothing.
• Overstuffed cushions may be favored for their plush look but can lead to issues like poor durability or sagging over time.

Work-Life Balance

• In organizational behavior, overstuffing workloads can result in employee burnout, highlighting the importance of balanced task management.
• Experts recommend prioritizing tasks effectively to avoid overstuffing schedules with too many commitments.