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

This response not only mobilizes workers for defense but also enhances their ability to overpower rival colonies. —Scott Travers, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024

This method is perfect for enhancing the turkey's natural taste without overpowering it. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 21 Nov. 2024

Not an obvious, overpowering kind—something much subtler, like a little cut that refuses to heal. —Jackson Arn, The New Yorker, 21 Nov. 2024

By choosing a light palette, Galloway creates impact without overpowering the living space. —Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 20 Nov. 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