Definition of "excess" in English

noun

1. The state of surpassing or going beyond a limit; the state of being beyond sufficiency, necessity, or duty; more than what is usual or proper.

   • The excess of heavy water was given away to the neighbouring country.
   • That kills me with excess of grief, this with excess of joy.

2. The degree or amount by which one thing or number exceeds another; remainder.

   • The difference between two numbers is the excess of one over the other.

3. An act of eating or drinking more than enough.

4. (geometry) Spherical excess, the amount by which the sum of the three angles of a spherical triangle exceeds two right angles. The spherical excess is proportional to the area of the triangle.

5. (British, insurance) A condition on an insurance policy by which the insured pays for a part of the claim.

adjective

1. More than is normal, necessary or specified.

verb

1. (US, transitive) To declare (an employee) surplus to requirements, such that he or she might not be given work.