overarching
adjective
over·arch·ing
ˌō-vər-ˈär-chiŋ 
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 benefit—
Bob Katz
Bob KatzExamples of overarching in a Sentence
Computer downtime is an overarching problem in all departments.
Recent Examples on the Web
Through Friday, the overarching message from the Weather Service was one of preparation and caution as the region faces days of impactful weather.
—Carlos E. Castañeda, CBS News, 22 Dec. 2025
The next level love movement is overarching and not limited to individual development.
—William Jones, USA Today, 19 Dec. 2025
In any event, the overarching story was one in which the Wiles furor caused another bout of turbulence for an administration that has hit some stormy seas.
—Niall Stanage, The Hill, 16 Dec. 2025
The overarching sentiment was expressive, celebratory, and deeply personal—driven by individuality and the pure joy of getting dressed.
—Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 16 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for overarching
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.
Carlos E. Castañeda, CBS News, 22 Dec. 2025
The next level love movement is overarching and not limited to individual development.
—William Jones, USA Today, 19 Dec. 2025
In any event, the overarching story was one in which the Wiles furor caused another bout of turbulence for an administration that has hit some stormy seas.
—Niall Stanage, The Hill, 16 Dec. 2025
The overarching sentiment was expressive, celebratory, and deeply personal—driven by individuality and the pure joy of getting dressed.
—Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 16 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for overarching
Cite this Entry
“Overarching.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overarching. Accessed 26 Dec. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share