Surplus

/ˈsɜr.pləs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

An amount of something left over when requirements have been met; an excess.

The budget surplus allowed the government to invest in infrastructure projects.

The amount of a commodity or resource that exceeds the amount needed.

There was a surplus of crops this season, which led to lower prices in the market.

adjective

More than what is needed or usual.

They had a surplus supply of materials, so they donated the extra goods to charity.

Exceeding what is necessary; additional.

The surplus funding will help us expand the program to reach more students.

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

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.

Surplus energy

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

Surplus cash

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