superfluous
12 synonyms and 2 antonyms for superfluous, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — More than is needed; unnecessary or excess.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use superfluous
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
superfluous detail
superfluous words
render something superfluous
Etymology
From Latin superfluus, "overflowing", from super ("over, above") + fluere ("to flow") — the same root as "fluid" and "mellifluous".
Full origin of superfluous →Frequently asked questions
What does “superfluous” mean?
The word “superfluous” means more than is needed; unnecessary or excess. In plain terms, extra to the point of being unnecessary.
How do you pronounce “superfluous”?
“Superfluous” is pronounced soo-PURF-loo-uhs (/suˈpɝflu.əs/ in IPA).
How do you use “superfluous” in a sentence?
Here is “superfluous” used in a sentence: “He crossed out the superfluous details to tighten the essay.”
What part of speech is “superfluous”?
“Superfluous” is an adjective.
Where does the word “superfluous” come from?
The word “superfluous” comes from Latin. From Latin superfluus, "overflowing", from super ("over, above") + fluere ("to flow") — the same root as "fluid" and "mellifluous".
Is “superfluous” a common word?
“Superfluous” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.
