adjective
inordinate
in-OR-din-ut/ɪnˈɔːrdɪnət/
Excessive in amount or degree.
An inordinate pile of sugar cubes towers above the tiny cup.
Etymology
“Not set in order” developed into “not kept within orderly limits.” That shift from disorder to exceeding limits explains why an inordinate amount is excessive rather than merely disorganized.
In context
In patriarchal societies there tends to be an inordinate degree of interest placed on the virginity of young women. It matters more for women than for men.
More examples
- She spent an inordinate sum on the party.
- The mistake received inordinate attention.
- He placed inordinate importance on a minor detail.
Forms
inordinate · more inordinate · most inordinate
inordinately adverb — to an excessive degree
Similar words
- excessive
- Excessive is the direct everyday equivalent; inordinate adds a sense of unreasonable disproportion.
- disproportionate
- Disproportionate is out of balance with something else; inordinate emphasizes an excessive amount.