overpower

verb

over·​pow·​er ˌō-vər-ˈpau̇(-ə)r How to pronounce overpower (audio)
overpowered; overpowering; overpowers
Synonyms of overpowernext

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.
Williams overpowered the Dodgers from the outset and faced just one batter more than the minimum through five innings. ABC News, 1 Apr. 2026 Using a stronger cheese like Roquefort in place of a milder option, such as Gorgonzola Dolce, may require reducing the amount to avoid overpowering the dish. Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 31 Mar. 2026 Calm interiors in muted shades of sand and tan do not overpower the landscape, which is the star of the show. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Mar. 2026 While black liner has long been the go-to for bold, dramatic definition, brown offers a softer, more wearable look that enhances the eyes without overpowering them. Sarah Felbin, Allure, 30 Mar. 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Overpower.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overpower. Accessed 4 Apr. 2026.

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

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster