superfluity
/ˌsuː.pəˈfluː.ɪ.ti/
superfluity means the quality or state of being superfluous; overflowingness. Lexicurio rates it Rare gem — a strength score of 75 out of 100.
superfluity is pronounced /ˌsuː.pəˈfluː.ɪ.ti/.
Why “superfluity” is a great word
An amount that exceeds what is useful, proper, or required. Its etymology flows from the Latin *superfluus* (“overflowing”), from *super-* (“over”) and *fluere* (“to flow”). Unlike a “surplus,” a neutral remainder to be stored or used, or a “necessity,” an indispensable core, superfluity denotes a quantity so vast it becomes an accusation of waste. It is the third untouched dessert, the fifth redundant apology, the closets of clothes smelling of camphor and disuse—the material evidence of our quiet fear of having just enough.
Etymology
From superflu(ous) + -ity, Old French superfluite, from Medieval Latin superfluitas, from Latin superfluus.
noun
- The quality or state of being superfluous; overflowingness.“[S]he could not but contrast the splendour of the Polish retinues and their plumages and draperies, with the strait-buttoned Prussian dignitaries, all in mere soldier uniform, succinct 'blue coat, white linen gaiters,' and no superfluity even in the epaulettes and red facings.”
- Something superfluous, as a luxury.“As they had almost all the conveniencies of life within themselves, they seldom visited towns or cities in search of superfluity.”
- Collective noun for a group of nuns.“These probably mark the dwelling of a colony, or to speak more precisely, according to Dame Juliana Berners, a superfluity of nuns from Godstow, which nunnery had a cell there, and was patron of the living.”