verb
overpower
oh-vuh-POW-uh
Overpower (verb) means to defeat or subdue someone using greater strength or force. Example: “The security guards managed to overpower the intruder.”
verb
1
To defeat or subdue someone using greater strength or force.
"The security guards managed to overpower the intruder."
"We overpowered the opposing army within a couple of hours."
2
To be so strong or intense that it dominates everything else, especially a smell or feeling.
"The smell of garlic overpowered every other flavour in the dish."
How to use overpower
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo beat something through sheer force or intensity, whether that's a person, a smell, or an emotion.
Common pairings
overpower an opponent
overpowering smell
overpowering emotion
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- overpowers
- Past tense
- overpowered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The security guards managed to _____ the intruder.
Etymology
Built from over- + power.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for overpower
See all rhymes for overpower →Frequently asked questions
What does “overpower” mean?
The word “overpower” means to defeat or subdue someone using greater strength or force. In plain terms, to beat something through sheer force or intensity, whether that's a person, a smell, or an emotion.
How do you pronounce “overpower”?
“Overpower” is pronounced oh-vuh-POW-uh (/oʊ.vɚˈpaʊ̯.ɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “overpower” in a sentence?
Here is “overpower” used in a sentence: “The security guards managed to overpower the intruder.”
What part of speech is “overpower”?
“Overpower” is a verb.
How many meanings does “overpower” have?
“Overpower” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to defeat or subdue someone using greater strength or force.
