overwhelming

adjective

over·​whelm·​ing ˌō-vər-ˈ(h)wel-miŋ 

: tending or serving to overwhelm

overwhelming force

overwhelming evidence

also : extreme, great

overwhelming indifference

an overwhelming majority

Examples of overwhelming in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

First, don’t try to tackle digitizing all the photos in one session—that will be too overwhelming. —Cori Sears, The Spruce, 22 Jan. 2026

In a period of overwhelming stress and tension, Lisa White, WGSN’s director of strategic forecasting and creative direction, said consumers are seeking powerful tools for emotional release. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 21 Jan. 2026

Spongy, sticky, and noticeably sweet, Nature’s Own whitewheat bread has a good texture and balanced flavor without an overwhelming taste. —Melinda Salchert, Southern Living, 21 Jan. 2026

The overwhelming message is that trust is reserved for those who show up in person. —Caroline Castrillon, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1567, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

overwhelming

adjective

over·​whelm·​ing ˌō-vər-ˈhwel-miŋ 

-wel-

: great sense 4, extreme

an overwhelming response

overwhelmingly adverb