Definition

To provide more employees than necessary for a job or task, which can lead to inefficiency or increased costs.

Example

The company decided to overstaff the project to ensure all tasks were completed on time.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard they might overstaff the new project team.

Really? That seems like a risky move for the budget.

Yeah, I think they should be careful not to hire too many people.

Exactly, it could lead to confusion and wasted resources.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overstaff → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "staff" (from Old English "stæf", meaning a group of people or a team). The word "overstaff" means to have an excessive number of staff or personnel.

Memory Tip

Think of having too many people on a team — 'over-' means excessively, and 'staff' refers to a group of people.

Visually Confused Words