overzealous
UK: ˌəʊvəˈzɛləs | US: ˌoʊvərˈzɛləs
adj. excessively enthusiastic or eager, especially to an unreasonable degree
overzealous = over<excessive> + zeal<passion> + ous<adjective suffix>
- over (from Old English ofer): Prefix meaning "excessive" or "beyond."
- zeal (from Greek zēlos via Latin zelus): Root meaning "passion" or "ardor."
- ous (from Latin -osus): Suffix forming adjectives meaning "full of" or "having the quality of."
Etymology Origin:
The word overzealous combines the intensifying prefix over- with zeal, reflecting a historical shift from religious fervor (Greek zēlos originally meant "jealousy" or "emulation") to general enthusiasm. The suffix -ous solidifies its adjectival form, emphasizing an exaggerated or unbalanced level of passion.
Her overzealous cleaning habits left no surface untouched.
The coach’s overzealous training regimen exhausted the team.
Critics accused him of overzealous enforcement of minor rules.
An overzealous fan interrupted the concert by rushing the stage.
The editor’s overzealous cuts weakened the article’s impact.