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

High-quality, intentional visuals should support the brand’s narrative without overpowering it. —Marie O'Riordan, Forbes, 5 Dec. 2024

This analogy highlights the system's ability to enhance natural movement without overpowering it, making mobility more accessible and appealing to a wider range of users. —Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 3 Dec. 2024

According To Designers Farrow & Ball Setting Plaster, No. 231 A hint of pink adds warmth and softness to the dining room without overpowering it and still allowing other design elements to sit centerstage. —Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 2 Dec. 2024

Plus, the sleek and modern design won’t overpower the room like other clunky versions. —Megan Schaltegger, People.com, 25 Nov. 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