Surfeit
hardNegative toneSER-fit
noun
Definition
An excessive amount of something; overindulgence
Memory hook
SUR-FEIT: overdoing it at a FEAST (sur = over) — an excessive, sickening amount.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“There was a surfeit of candidates for the position.”
“A surfeit of rich food left him feeling ill.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“There was a ______ of candidates for the position.”
Show answer
surfeit
Categories
GRE Tip
Surfeit is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "excess" or "glut" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "dearth".
Related GRE Words
glut
An excessive supply or amount; to supply excessively
profusion
An abundance or large quantity of something
satiate
to satisfy fully, often to excess
excessive
More than is necessary, normal, or desirable; immoderate
inundation
An overwhelming abundance; a flood
adulatory
Excessively praising or admiring; fawning
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