overarching

adjective

over·​arch·​ing ˌō-vər-ˈär-chiŋ How to pronounce overarching (audio)
Synonyms of overarchingnext
1
: forming an arch overhead
an overarching bower
an overarching bridge
2
: dominating or embracing all else
overarching goals
overarching ambition
projects of overarching public benefitBob Katz

Examples of overarching in a Sentence

Computer downtime is an overarching problem in all departments.
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.
Unfortunately, Stanton is so eager to build his overarching vision that the film avoids spending time with any of these people. Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 30 Jan. 2026 Congress has repeatedly waded into establishing an overarching federal law that would encompass AI that dispenses mental health advice. Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 30 Jan. 2026 His overarching goal will be to maintain the current stretch of calm with both Beijing and Washington — as well as adhering to domestic priorities of free trade and sustainability. Brendan Murray, Bloomberg, 27 Jan. 2026 Both Yoshida and Oda identify traditional elements and overarching principles for Japanese living room design, but with the understanding that the spirit of these ideas is key to embracing the style. Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overarching

Word History

First Known Use

1720, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of overarching was in 1720

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Cite this Entry

“Overarching.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overarching. Accessed 5 Feb. 2026.

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