overwhelm
oh-vuh-WEHLM
Overwhelm (verb) means to completely overpower someone or something, whether physically or emotionally. Example: “The wave overwhelmed the small boat.”
verb
1
To completely overpower someone or something, whether physically or emotionally.
"He was overwhelmed with guilt."
"The wave overwhelmed the small boat."
"She was overwhelmed with joy when she heard the news."
"Joy overwhelmed her when she realized that she had won a million dollars."
How to use overwhelm
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo completely swamp or overpower someone with force, work, or feeling.
Common pairings
overwhelm with emotion
feel overwhelmed
overwhelm the defenses
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Word forms
- Plural
- overwhelms
- Third person singular
- overwhelms
- Past tense
- overwhelmed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The wave _____ the small boat.
Etymology
From Middle English overwhelmen, formed from over- + an older word whelm meaning "to turn over" or "engulf."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “overwhelm” mean?
The word “overwhelm” means to completely overpower someone or something, whether physically or emotionally. In plain terms, to completely swamp or overpower someone with force, work, or feeling.
How do you pronounce “overwhelm”?
“Overwhelm” is pronounced oh-vuh-WEHLM (/ˌoʊ.vɚˈʍɛlm/ in IPA).
How do you use “overwhelm” in a sentence?
Here is “overwhelm” used in a sentence: “The wave overwhelmed the small boat.”
What is another word for “overwhelm”?
Words with a similar meaning to “overwhelm” include grip and ravish.
What is the opposite of “overwhelm”?
The opposite of “overwhelm” — its antonyms — is underwhelm.
What part of speech is “overwhelm”?
“Overwhelm” is a verb.
Where does the word “overwhelm” come from?
The word “overwhelm” comes from Middle English. From Middle English overwhelmen, formed from over- + an older word whelm meaning "to turn over" or "engulf.".
Is “overwhelm” a common word?
“Overwhelm” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
