Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌoʊvərˌæplɪˈkeɪʃən/
KK: /oʊvərˌæplɪˈkeɪʃən/
Definition
The action of applying something too much or excessively.
Example
The overapplication of fertilizer can harm the plants instead of helping them grow.
Conversation

I think I went a bit overboard with the fertilizer in my garden.

Really? What do you mean by overapplication?

I just added too much, and now some plants look a bit burnt.

Oh no! Maybe you should water them more to help with the overapplication.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
excess
overuse
misapplication
Antonyms
underuse
restraint
moderation
Root Explanation
Overapplication → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "application" (from Latin "applicare", meaning to apply). The word refers to the act of applying something excessively or too much.
Memory Tip
Think of applying something 'excessively' ('over-') — that's why overapplication means applying too much.
Visually Confused Words
reapplication
application
interapplication
preapplication
nonapplication
perplication