Definition

Describing something that is larger than normal or expected in size or extent.

Example

The overscale furniture made the room feel cramped and uncomfortable.

Conversation

Have you seen that new couch at Mark's place?

Yeah, it's really nice, but it seems a bit overscale for the room.

I agree, it takes up way too much space.

Exactly! A smaller one would fit much better, I think.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overscale → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively or beyond) and "scale" (from Old French *escale*, meaning a ladder or a series of steps). The word "overscale" refers to something that is excessively large or beyond the normal scale or size.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'beyond' ('over-') the normal 'steps' or 'levels' ('scale') — that's why overscale means excessively large.

Visually Confused Words