From Latin superfluus (“superfluous”), from superfluō (“overflow”), from super (“above, more than, over”) + fluō (“flow”). Compare mellifluous and fluid, also from Latin. Literally corresponds to overflow, which is from Germanic, rather than Latin.
- (Received Pronunciation) IPA(key): /suːˈpɜːflu.əs/, /sjʊˈpɜːflu.əs/
- (US) IPA(key): /suːˈpɝːflu.əs/
Audio (US) (file)
superfluous (not comparable)
- In excess of what is required or sufficient.
- With a full rain suit, carrying an umbrella may be superfluous.