overload

[ verb oh-ver-lohd; noun oh-ver-lohd ]

verb (used with object)

1. to load to excess; overburden:

   Don't overload the raft or it will sink.

noun

1. an excessive load.

overload

verb

1. tr to put too large a load on or in

noun

1. an excessive load

Word History and Origins

Origin of overload¹

First recorded in 1545–55; over- + load

Example Sentences

The cable news landscape has long been a locus of information overload, which only accelerated during Trump’s first presidency.

From Salon

The court heard how the gang overloaded the small boats, sometimes cramming up to 15 times more people on board than they were designed to carry.

From BBC

Don’t overload your electrical outlets with extra lights and devices.

From Los Angeles Times

Like a virtual "spellbook," an online tool can help ensure your food choices support your gut health and ward off the effects of sugar overload.

From Salon

Prior to that, a four-month-old baby died when an overloaded migrant boat sank on the evening of 18 October.

From BBC

Related Words

• overburden
• overwhelm