Definition

Describing something that has been used so many times that it has lost its original meaning or impact.

Example

The phrase was so overused that it no longer felt special.

Conversation

I feel like that phrase is so overused these days.

I know what you mean; it seems like everyone says it now.

Right? It's lost its impact because it's been used too often.

Totally! We should come up with something more original.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overused → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "use" (from Old French *user*, meaning to employ or utilize) and "-ed" (a suffix indicating past tense or completed action). The word "overused" means to have used something excessively or too much.

Memory Tip

Think of using something 'excessively' ('over-') — that's why 'overused' means it has been used too much.

Visually Confused Words