overstimulation

American  

[oh-ver-stim-yuh-ley-shuhn] / ˌoʊ vərˌstɪm yəˈleɪ ʃən /

noun

1. an act or instance of excessively stimulating something, particularly when the result is undesirable.

   Overstimulation of the economy gave us record job openings, an indication of the demand that can’t be met by the available workforce.

2. Physiology, Medicine/Medical. sensory overload.

   A big, extravagant party may seem like a kid-pleaser, but for many children it’s overstimulation, which can evoke anxiety, withdrawal, anger, etc.

3. Biology, Physiology. especially of a gland or nerve, the act of being or becoming overactive and producing an abnormal increase in whatever substance or effect would otherwise be a normal function.

   Too much thyroid hormone in the body occurs from overstimulation of the thyroid gland, but that can be regulated with medication.

   The blood vessels in the lower extremities have dilated, suggesting overstimulation of the vagus nerve.

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Etymology

Origin of overstimulation

First recorded in 1795–1805; over- ( def. ) + stimulation ( def. )

Example Sentences

This molecule activates key signaling pathways in a novel manner that benefits muscle function while avoiding the heart overstimulation typically associated with β2 agonists.

From Science Daily • Dec. 7, 2025

Cafes and teahouses in Beijing and Chengdu now double as pseudo-temples, selling fortune charms, herbal infusions, and “Stay-Up-Late Water” tonics meant to balance urban overstimulation.

From Barron's • Nov. 1, 2025

I feel like it was literally almost an emotional and mental overload, overstimulation for Dre because I feel like it was all her past traumas came right before her eyes.

From Salon • Jun. 14, 2023

In fact, the entire show was a frenetic rush of spectacle designed to keep people’s attention in the TikTok era of overstimulation and it was executed at the highest level possible.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 18, 2023

Hers was an open, if need be a furtive, overattention and overstimulation, an inveterate surrender to the sweet tyranny of her son's childish whims.

From Our Nervous Friends — Illustrating the Mastery of Nervousness by Carroll, Robert S.