Definition

To sell more of something than is available or to promote something too enthusiastically.

Example

The company tends to oversell its products, leading to customer disappointment when items are out of stock.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I think they really oversell that new phone model.

Yeah, the ads make it seem like it's the best thing ever.

Exactly! It can't be that great if they have to oversell it like that.

I agree, sometimes less hype means a better product.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Oversell → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "sell" (from Old English "sellan", meaning to give or deliver). The word "oversell" means to sell something excessively or beyond what is reasonable.

Memory Tip

Think of selling something 'excessively' ('over-') — that's why oversell means to sell too much.

Visually Confused Words