Feature Creep
The gradual addition of features that makes a product more complex than its purpose requires.
Plain English
More features keep getting added until the product becomes bloated.
In context
Feature creep increases usability maintenance and delivery costs when additions lack a clear product rationale.
Example
“Team permissions may be feature creep for the first release.”
When you'll hear this
- roadmap review
- product design
- scope planning
Common misunderstanding
Feature breadth is not inherently bad when each feature supports validated needs.
Commonly used by
Related terms
Updated: 2026-08-25
