overpower

verb

over·​pow·​er ˌō-vər-ˈpau̇(-ə)r How to pronounce overpower (audio)
overpowered; overpowering; overpowers
Synonyms of overpowernext

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 adverb

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
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.
Many imitation almond extracts or essences rely on synthetic benzaldehyde for flavor, which can create saccharine notes that overpower delicate desserts like custards, sponges, or pastry creams. Emily Saladino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 Apr. 2026 Raw Vidalia onions get time to show off their mild, sweet flavor without overpowering. Josh Miller, Southern Living, 8 Apr. 2026 Vicario has a relatively slender frame and can occasionally be overpowered when opposition attackers pack the six-yard box, attempting to screen him or disrupt his path to the ball. Matt Pyzdrowski, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2026 The end result was the ball in the back of the net as Smithson Valley, who overpowered opponents 153-9 this spring, won 1-0 in what may have amounted to its tightest game of the season. Staff Writter, Dallas Morning News, 8 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overpower

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of overpower was in 1597

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Cite this Entry

“Overpower.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overpower. Accessed 18 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

overpower

verb
over·​pow·​er ˌō-vər-ˈpau̇(-ə)r How to pronounce overpower (audio)
1
: to overcome by greater force : defeat
2
: overwhelm sense 2
overpowered by hunger
overpoweringly adverb

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