1. excessive use of force or action beyond what is necessary or appropriate
2. nuclear weapons capability far exceeding what is needed to destroy an enemy
Usage: military

1. to use excessive force or effort in dealing with something

Examples

• Using a sledgehammer to crack a nut is complete overkill.
• The security measures seemed like overkill for such a small event.
• The military’s nuclear overkill capacity was a major concern during the Cold War.
• Don’t overkill the presentation with too many special effects.
• The punishment was overkill for such a minor offense.
• The company’s marketing campaign was overkill and annoyed customers.
• Three fire trucks for a small kitchen fire was definitely overkill.