Overrun

Overrun refers to the action of exceeding or surpassing a limit, boundary, or expected capacity, often in a negative context. It can involve overflowing or invading an area physically, such as a population or resource, or it can pertain to time and budget in project management. The term also applies to circumstances where something is overpopulated or overused, leading to depletion or chaos in the affected area.

Overrun meaning with examples

• The local park was overrun by tourists during the summer festival, making it nearly impossible for residents to navigate their usual walking paths. Families crowded the area with picnics, and children played on all available grassy patches. Despite the fun atmosphere, many longtime visitors felt bothered by the noise and the difficulty of finding a quiet spot. The park committee plans to implement stricter visitor limits in the future to preserve the space for everyone.
• During the construction of the new subway line, the project was overrun with unexpected delays due to unforeseen geological conditions. What was expected to be a six-month project ballooned into a year-long endeavor. Workers had to adjust their strategies constantly, and budgets were strained as additional funding was required to address these challenges. City officials faced pressure from residents frustrated by the long disruptions to their daily commutes and local businesses.
• An invasive species of insects has begun to overrun the local farm, damaging crops and reducing yields significantly. Farmers have struggled to manage the situation effectively, resorting to various pest control measures. Despite their efforts, the insects multiplied rapidly and took over vast areas of farmland, threatening the livelihoods of those who depend on agriculture. Agricultural experts are now advising farmers to employ more sustainable methods to control the overrun while restoring ecological balance.
• The city council's plans to hold a community event were nearly overrun by protests regarding a controversial policy. As residents gathered at the town hall, organizers found themselves overwhelmed by the volume of supporters vocalizing their dissatisfaction. The situation escalated quickly, making it challenging to proceed with the planned agenda. In response, council members promised to address the concerns of the community before proceeding, acknowledging that engaging with citizens was critical to overcoming the overrun.