overpowering

[oh-ver-pou-er-ing]

adjective

1. that overpowers; overwhelming.

   an overpowering conviction of the truth.

Other Word Forms

• overpoweringly adverb
• overpoweringness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of overpowering¹

First recorded in 1690–1700; overpower + -ing ²

Example Sentences

The Reds do not have an overpowering offense.

From Los Angeles Times

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

Happy to bide his time and assess his options, Venkatesham, it is understood, didn't feel an overpowering to urge to return to football.

From BBC

There was an overpowering quest for spiritual betterment, along with a demand for permission to pursue your passion and an insistence on unfettered expression.

From Los Angeles Times

The grape flavor is both strong and aromatic without overpowering the gummies’ sourness.

From Salon

Related Words

• irresistible 
• overwhelming 
• powerful 
• uncontrollable