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Definition of overzealous

overzealous

/ˌoʊ.vɚˈzɛl.əs/
o · ver · zeal · ous
Adverb:overzealously
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overzealous Lexical Profile

overzealous Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Excessively or improperly zealous; showing too much enthusiasm, fervor, or eagerness in pursuing an objective.

Example

"The overzealous security guard questioned every visitor at length before allowing them into the building."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for overzealous

• Rhymes for overzealous

• Nearby Words

overworked
overwrite
overwrought
overzealous
overzealously
overzealousness
oviraptor

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the prefix 'over-' and 'zealous', which derives via Medieval Latin from Ancient Greek 'zelos' (ardor, eager rivalry).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Overzealous. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/overzealous
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