Definition of "surcharge" [sur•charge]

• An additional sum added to the usual amount or cost. (noun)
• An overcharge, especially when unlawful. (noun)
• An additional or excessive burden; an overload. (noun)
• A new value or denomination overprinted on a postage or revenue stamp. (noun)
• The stamp to which a new value has been applied. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• ""It is what I call the surcharge culture," he said."
• "During last year's governor's campaign, Quinn told his voters he wanted to raise the income tax from 3 percent to 4 percent, what he called a surcharge for education."
• "I can see the argument that the 2.5% surcharge is an income tax even though it is on realized risk rather than realized expense."