overconsumption

noun

over·​con·​sump·​tion ˌō-vər-kən-ˈsəm(p)-shən 

: excessive consumption or use of something

the overconsumption of fossil fuels

overconsumption of alcohol

The flip side of deficient saving, of course, is overconsumption. At its peak in 1987, household expenditure as a percentage of national income was 74%, almost four percentage points above the highest levels reached during the previous two decades.

—Robert S. Gay

Examples of overconsumption in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Research also suggests that the overconsumption of sugar can increase the risk of calcium stones. —Kumkum S. Patel, Verywell Health, 31 Jan. 2025

This creates a harmful cycle of consumerism and overconsumption. —The Learning Network, New York Times, 16 Jan. 2025

Consume Responsibly: Start with low doses, especially if trying new products, to gauge their effects and avoid overconsumption. —Matt Rozo, The Mercury News, 31 Dec. 2024

Instead, the Finnish inclination towards practicality has built a vibrant (albeit small) fashion community that consciously thinks about reducing waste, recycling materials, and reducing overconsumption. —Brett Braley, Robb Report, 27 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for overconsumption

• assumption
• consumption
• presumption
• resumption
• subsumption
• gumption
• sumption