# overpopulation

/ˌoʊvɝˌpɑpjəˈɫeɪʃən/ (US) · /ˌəʊvəpˌɒpjʊlˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/overpopulation
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

a situation where there are too many people or animals living in one area. This can cause problems like not enough food or space for everyone.

For teachers: a condition in which the number of individuals in a population exceeds the carrying capacity of their environment. Often used in ecological or demographic contexts to describe resource depletion.

## Examples

- Overpopulation in the city leads to crowded streets and long commutes.
- The island's ecosystem is struggling because of overpopulation of rabbits that are eating all the local grass.
- While some argue that overpopulation is the primary driver of environmental degradation, others point to the per capita consumption of resources as the more significant factor.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.