Definition

Larger than what is considered normal or appropriate in size.

Example

The overscaled building towered over the surrounding structures, making them look small in comparison.

Conversation

Have you seen that new sculpture in the park?

Yeah, I think it's a bit overscaled for the space.

I agree! It almost overwhelms the surrounding trees.

Exactly, something smaller would fit much better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overscaled → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively or too much) and "scaled" (from the root "scale" which comes from Latin "scala", meaning a ladder or a series of steps). The word "overscaled" means excessively large or disproportionate in size, as if it has been scaled up too much.

Memory Tip

Think of something being made 'too much' ('over-') larger than it should be, like climbing a 'ladder' ('scala') that is too high — that's why overscaled means excessively large.

Visually Confused Words