Meaning & Definition of word "Surplus"

Surplus

/ˈsɜr.pləs/

noun:

  • 1. An amount of something left over when requirements have been met; an excess.
    • Example: The budget surplus allowed the government to invest in infrastructure projects.
  • 2. The amount of a commodity or resource that exceeds the amount needed.
    • Example: There was a surplus of crops this season, which led to lower prices in the market.

adjective:

  • 1. More than what is needed or usual.
    • Example: They had a surplus supply of materials, so they donated the extra goods to charity.
  • 2. Exceeding what is necessary; additional.
    • Example: The surplus funding will help us expand the program to reach more students.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Old French surplus, from Latin surplus 'remaining', from super- 'above' + plus 'more'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

trade surplus:

A situation in which a country exports more than it imports.

budget surplus:

A financial situation where revenue exceeds expenditures.

surplus value:

The value added by labor to a product beyond the cost of production.

Related Words

deficit:

A deficiency in amount or quality.

excess:

More than necessary, permitted, or desirable.

abundance:

A very large quantity of something.

Slang Meanings of surplus

Meaning: Surplus energy

Example Sentence: After a long run, I have so much surplus energy that I could dance all night.

Meaning: Surplus cash

Example Sentence: I have some surplus cash, so I'm thinking of investing.