overarching

[oh-ver-ahr-ching]

adjective

1. forming an arch above.

   great trees with overarching branches.

2. encompassing or overshadowing everything.

   The community's overarching needs are more jobs and better housing.

overarching

/ ˌəʊvərˈɑːtʃɪŋ /

adjective

1. overall; all-encompassing

   an overarching concept

Word History and Origins

Origin of overarching¹

First recorded in 1710–20; overarch + -ing ²

Example Sentences

But does that detract from the novel’s overarching message about the value of love, in all its forms, in the lives of these always-endearing characters?

From Los Angeles Times

Today’s games also have more cinematic qualities than in the past, with overarching storylines and detailed world-building.

From Los Angeles Times

It enshrines the commitment to uphold the Seven Principles of Public Life, and details "the overarching duty on Ministers to comply with the law and to protect the integrity of public life".

From BBC

But I think the overarching theme is that none of us are happy with where we’re at in terms of what our record has been.

From Los Angeles Times

Officials from the Parade Command Office have said "the overarching principle... is to avoid disturbing the public as much as possible".

From BBC

Related Words

• overall 
• throughout 
• underlying