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DictionarysurfeitExcess
noun / verb

surfeit

SUR-fit/ˈsɜːrfɪt/

An excess beyond what is needed or wanted.

The small party faces a surfeit of food across the overflowing banquet table.

An overflowing banquet table has far more food than the small party can eat.
Etymology
surOld Frenchover, beyond
+feitOld Frenchto do, make

The pieces combine as “overdo.” The noun comes from a form meaning something overdone, connecting excessive action with an excessive quantity or overabundant supply.

More examples

  • The store has a surfeit of winter coats.
  • A surfeit of praise can make criticism harder to accept.
  • After the holidays, we feel surfeited with sweets.

Forms

surfeit · surfeits · surfeited · surfeiting

Similar words

excess
The broadest term for an amount beyond acceptable limits.
surplus
Usually refers to extra supply, which may still be useful.
glut
Suggests an oversupply that overwhelms demand or reduces value.