overcrowd

[ oh-ver-kroud ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to crowd to an uncomfortable or undesirable excess.

overcrowd

/ ˌəʊvəˈkraʊd /

verb

1. tr to fill (a room, vehicle, city, etc) with more people or things than is desirable

Word History and Origins

Origin of overcrowd¹

First recorded in 1760–70; over- + crowd ¹

Example Sentences

Justice Secretary Angela Constance said the bill would ensure jails continued to function safely and effectively, as overcrowding could reach "critical levels" if ministers did not act.

From BBC

The government says the policy will redirect students to regional towns and universities that need them, instead of overcrowded big cities.

From BBC

This had led to special school leaders stating that their overcrowded schools "are being pushed towards crisis points".

From BBC

More than 2,000 flights were cancelled on 28 and 29 August, causing "chaotic conditions" at overcrowded airports, the CAA reported.

From BBC

The father of young woman shot dead on Christmas Eve said the early release of her killer's accomplice due to prison overcrowding "makes a mockery" of justice.

From BBC

Related Words

• cluster
• congest
• congregate
• deluge
• flock
• gather
• huddle
• pack
• pile
• squeeze
• stream
• swamp
• swarm
• throng