overdose

Everyday

1. An overdose is too much of a medicine or drug taken at once, which can make someone very ill or kill them. tree →
2. To overdose is to take such a dangerous amount. tree →
3. (informal) An overdose of something is too much of it, like an overdose of sugar or TV. tree →

In the lessons

In health and safety lessons: only take medicine an adult gives you, as the label says; an overdose is an emergency (call 999, 911, 000 or 111, 112). In jokes: «an overdose of homework».

Examples

• Taking too many tablets can cause an overdose. tree →
• If someone takes an overdose, call an ambulance at once. tree →
• Keep medicines away from small children to prevent an overdose. tree →
• The label shows the right dose so you don't overdose. tree →
• I had an overdose of chocolate at the party. tree →
• Even vitamins can be dangerous in an overdose. tree →

Note

Plural: overdoses. Short form: OD (informal). Safety: never take medicine on your own; follow the dose. In maths, the dose is an amount; an overdose is more than the safe amount.