excess
UK[ɪkˈsɛs]US[ˈɛkˌsɛs]
n
An amount of something that is more than necessary, permitted, or desirable.
n
Lack of moderation, especially in eating or drinking.
adj
Exceeding a prescribed or desirable limit.
Morpheme Breakdown
ex
cess
ex
out
cess
go
Etymology
The word 'excess' originates from the Latin 'excessus', a noun derived from the verb 'excedere', meaning 'to go out, go beyond, or surpass'. This verb itself is a compound of 'ex-' ('out') and 'cedere' ('to go'). The core concept is one of movement beyond a boundary or limit. Over time, this literal sense of 'going out' evolved into the abstract meanings of surpassing a norm, whether referring to an overabundant quantity or a lack of restraint in behavior.
Analysis
Structure: ex (out) + cess (go)
The prefix 'ex-' is from Latin, meaning 'out, out of, thoroughly'. The root 'cess' is from Latin 'cedere', meaning 'to go, yield, withdraw'.
Examples
The charity collected an excess of donations after the disaster.
He was cautioned by the doctor for his excess in drinking.
The airline charges a fee for excess baggage.