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

Revolve Featuring classic fall spices, this simple candle has a balanced scent that’s strong but not overpowering. —Moriah Mason, Southern Living, 16 Oct. 2024

Quickly, the corruption spreads, taking corporeal shape and overpowering Alba and her wolf. —Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 15 Oct. 2024

Aided by their numbers, the ants can kill other insects by overpowering them. —Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 11 Oct. 2024

More light than overpowering, with delicate notes of rose, peony, sparkling lychee, warm woods, and a hint of pink musk, this is everything sweet, soft, and fresh. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 9 Oct. 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