overpower

verb

over·​pow·​er ˌō-vər-ˈpau̇(-ə)r 

overpowered; overpowering; overpowers

transitive verb

1

: to overcome by superior force : subdue

2

: to affect with overwhelming intensity

the stench overpowered us

3

: to provide with more power than is needed or desirable

a dangerously overpowered car

overpoweringly

ˌō-vər-ˈpau̇(-ə)r-iŋ-lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• conquer
• dominate
• pacify
• subdue
• subject
• subjugate
• subordinate
• vanquish

Examples of overpower in a Sentence

She was able to overpower her attacker.

The police overpowered the man and handcuffed him.

The troops were overpowered by the stronger enemy forces.

His personality overpowers everyone else's.

The delicate taste of the wine was overpowered by the spiciness of the food.

Recent Examples on the Web

Elderflower Liqueur Known for its light, floral flavor, elderflower liqueur is ideal for cocktails that require a touch of sweetness without overpowering the other ingredients. —Rachel King, Forbes, 3 Nov. 2024

Historic Dodgers overpower Yankees for eighth World Series championship. —Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 2024

But surprisingly, Gaga doesn’t overpower this blockbuster remake of Chic’s classic 1978 single. —Kristen S. Hé, Vulture, 25 Oct. 2024

Yellow onion: Lends a strong yet mild flavor that when cooked is slightly sweet without being overpowering. —Liv Dansky, Southern Living, 11 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

overpower

verb

over·​pow·​er ˌō-vər-ˈpau̇(-ə)r 

1

: to overcome by greater force : defeat

2

: overwhelm sense 2

overpowered by hunger

overpoweringly

-ˈpau̇r-iŋ-lē 

adverb