overcapacity

noun

over·​ca·​pac·​i·​ty ˌō-vər-kə-ˈpa-sə-tē How to pronounce overcapacity (audio)
-ˈpa-stē
: excessive capacity for production or services in relation to demand

Examples of overcapacity in a Sentence

The airlines are lowering their prices because of an overcapacity of seats.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Walker was unsuccessful in convincing the old board, but says the new members are keenly aware of the costs of overcapacity. — Andy Sheehan, CBS News, 20 May 2026 Many experts question whether overcapacity is a trade violation. — Kent Jones, The Conversation, 14 May 2026 If the forecast is wrong, owners are left with underperforming assets, overcapacity and sometimes insolvency. — Robert C. Wolcott, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 One example of overcapacity cited by the report concerns the availability of gaseous nitrogen used during the fueling, testing, and launching of rockets. — Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for overcapacity

Word History

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overcapacity was in 1877

Rhymes for overcapacity

See All Rhymes for overcapacity

Browse Nearby Words

overcanopy
overcapacity
overcapitalization
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Overcapacity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overcapacity. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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