Words / B2

ohv-uh-LOHD/ˌəʊvəˈləʊd/

To overload is to put too much weight, work, or electric current onto something: overload a circuit; overload with work. Overburden is a close twin for work; short-circuit is a different electrical fault. Do not overload the circuit in the practical; quote the ampere rating. Mix-up: overload vs overlay; overload vs the noun an overload — this entry is the verb; do not write overload for a full but rated load that is within the spec.

Meaning

To put too much weight, work, or electric current onto something.

Examples

• “Do not overload the circuit in the practical; quote the ampere rating, the physics paper said.”
• “Staff were overloaded with marking, which is the work sense — still quote the hours if given.”

Good to know

overload a circuit / a lorry / someone with work. Noun possible: an overload — headword here is the verb. Close: overburden. Trap: overlay / a load within spec / a short circuit. Physics, H&S, and business. Too much load — quote A, kg, or hours.

Near in meaning

overburden, overcharge, weigh down

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