overpower

verb

over·​pow·​er ˌō-vər-ˈpau̇(-ə)r How to pronounce overpower (audio)
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 adverb

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Over-marinating can also overpower the natural flavor of the meat. Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 22 June 2025 Both men overpowered Carrington and took over the boat, according to prosecutors, driving it for several hours to a dock in Apalachicola in Franklin County, along the Florida Panhandle. Julia Marnin, Miami Herald, 20 June 2025 The bar feels theatrical—expansive without being cold—and, surprisingly, doesn't overpower the food or the experience. Jordi Lippe-McGraw, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025 Berry tarts and zesty lemon cookies amplify the lemonade’s freshness without overpowering it. Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for overpower

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of overpower was in 1597

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Cite this Entry

“Overpower.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overpower. Accessed 28 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

overpower

verb
over·​pow·​er ˌō-vər-ˈpau̇(-ə)r How to pronounce overpower (audio)
1
: to overcome by greater force : defeat
2
: overwhelm sense 2
overpowered by hunger
overpoweringly adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on overpower

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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