overpower

[oh-ver-pou-er]

verb (used with object)

1. to overcome, master, or subdue by superior force.

   to overpower a maniac.

   Synonyms: beat, defeat, conquer, subjugate, vanquish

2. to overcome or overwhelm in feeling; affect or impress excessively.

   overpowered with confusion and desire.

3. to gain mastery over the bodily powers or mental faculties of.

   a strong drink that quickly overpowered him.

4. to furnish or equip with excessive power: pow: power.

   a giant motor that overpowered the pump.

overpower

/ ˌəʊvəˈpaʊə /

verb

1. to conquer or subdue by superior force

2. to have such a strong effect on as to make helpless or ineffective

3. to supply with more power than necessary

Other Word Forms

• unoverpowered adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of overpower¹

First recorded in 1585–95; over- + power

Example Sentences

Andrew Free, a researcher who studies detainee deaths and has filed a lawsuit to obtain city records, is suspicious of city claims that they are being overpowered.

From Los Angeles Times

The Reds do not have an overpowering offense.

From Los Angeles Times

England recovered from an early scare and never looked back as they overpowered Canada in a 33-13 win, the second largest margin of victory in a Women's Rugby World Cup final.

From BBC

Tawfik was shocked in Gaza by an overpowering smell of blood in hospitals packed with the dead and dying who had been shot near aid sites.

From BBC

Fritz overpowered Alcaraz from the baseline, hitting 17 winners and five aces while also showing good hands at the net, winning 16 of his 20 net points.

From BBC

Related Words

• blank 
• clobber 
• conquer 
• crush 
• defeat 
• drub 
• knock out 
• overcome 
• overwhelm 
• rout 
• smash 
• subdue 
• take care of 
• trounce 
• vanquish