Emily Dickinson Lexicon

EX-CESS'IVE, a.

1. Beyond any given degree, measure, or limit, or beyond the common measure or proportion; as, the excessive bulk of a man; excessive labor; excessive wages.
2. Beyond the established laws of morality and religion, or beyond the bounds of justice, fitness, propriety, expedience or utility; as, excessive indulgence of any kind. Excessive bail shall not be required. Bill of Rights.
3. Extravagant; unreasonable. His expenditures of money were excessive.
4. Vehement; violent; as, excessive passion.