surplus
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: surpluses · surplusses · surplusing · surplussing
Sense 1
That which remains when use or need is satisfied, or when a limit is reached; excess; overplus; overage.
Noun
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Specifically, an amount in the public treasury at any time greater than is required for the ordinary purposes of the government.
Noun
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Being or constituting a surplus; more than sufficient.
Adjective
Examples
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 4
To treat as surplus to requirements; to sell off or dismiss from employment, etc.
Verb
Examples
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “surplus” mean?
That which remains when use or need is satisfied, or when a limit is reached; excess; overplus; overage.
Is “surplus” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.