overflow Definition
- 1to flow over the edge or top of a container
- 2to be so full that no more can be added
- 3an act or instance of overflowing
Using overflow: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "overflow" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The bathtub overflowed and flooded the bathroom.
Example
The river overflowed its banks and caused widespread damage.
Example
The parking lot was overflowing with cars.
Example
Her heart overflowed with joy when she saw her newborn baby.
overflow Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using overflow
Example
She overflowed with emotion when she saw her childhood home again.
Example
He overflowed with gratitude when his friends helped him move.
Example
The brainstorming session was overflowing with ideas for the new project.
Phrases with overflow
Example
The overflow valve on the water tank prevented it from bursting.
overflow crowd
a crowd that exceeds the capacity of a venue
Example
The concert drew an overflow crowd of fans who couldn't get tickets.
having an abundance of something
Example
The garden was overflowing with beautiful flowers.
Origins of overflow
from 'over-' + 'flow'
Summary: overflow in Brief
The term 'overflow' [ˈəʊvəfləʊ] refers to the act of flowing over the edge or top of a container, or being so full that no more can be added. It can also denote an instance of overflowing, such as a river overflowing its banks or a parking lot overflowing with cars. Phrases like 'overflow valve' and 'overflow crowd' extend the concept, while idioms like 'overflow with emotion' and 'overflow with gratitude' express strong feelings. Synonyms include 'spill over,' 'flood,' and 'deluge.'
