1. an instance of something overflowing or spreading beyond its usual limits
2. an unintended consequence or side effect that affects other areas or people
3. the spread of an economic effect from one sector or region to another
Usage: economics

Examples

• The spillover from the overflowing sink damaged the kitchen floor.
• There was a spillover of angry protesters into the adjacent street.
• The company’s success had a positive spillover effect on the local economy.
• Budget cuts in education created negative spillover effects in other social programs.
• The economic crisis caused spillover damage to neighboring countries.
• Crowd spillover from the concert blocked traffic on nearby roads.
• The spillover benefits of the new hospital reached rural communities.