overwhelming

[ oh-ver-hwel-ming, -wel- ]

adjective

1. that overwhelms; overpowering:

   The temptation to despair may become overwhelming.

2. so great as to render resistance or opposition useless:

   an overwhelming majority.

overwhelming

/ ˌəʊvəˈwɛlmɪŋ /

adjective

1. overpowering in effect, number, or force

Derived Forms

• ˌoverˈwhelmingly, adverb

Other Words From

• over·whelming·ly adverb
• over·whelming·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of overwhelming¹

First recorded in 1565–75; overwhelm + -ing ²

Example Sentences

He won fair and square but to call it an overwhelming mandate to dismantle the government is ridiculous.

From Salon

But in Washington, it's become clear that Trump's win was not the overwhelming validation of his agenda that we were told in the days after Nov. 5.

From Salon

So it’s been an overwhelming experience, but beautifully cathartic.

From Los Angeles Times

She wanted to clear her head “after that big, overwhelming experience” of juggling dual roles as a writer and executive producer.

From Los Angeles Times

The magic lies in the daring it takes to declare a weaker group to be part of an overwhelming conspiracy.

From Salon

Related Words

• amazing
• astounding
• crushing
• devastating
• mind-boggling
• staggering
• stunning
• vast