Inundate: meaning, definitions and examples

This is often used to describe a situation where someone or something is overwhelmed with an excessive amount of something, such as work, requests, or information.

• The customer service team was inundated with complaints.
• After the meeting, my inbox was inundated with follow-up emails.

Usually pertains to water overflowing onto normally dry land, but it can also be used metaphorically to describe an overwhelming influx of things or people.

• The river will flood if the rain doesn’t stop soon.
• The inbox flooded with messages after the announcement.

This is used when someone or something is completely overcome or overpowered by emotions, tasks, or situations. It has a strong emotional connotation.

• She was overwhelmed with joy when she heard the news.
• The team was overwhelmed by the complexity of the project.

Mainly refers to something being entirely under water, but can also be used metaphorically to describe being deeply immersed in an activity or emotion.

• The car was completely submerged after the flood.
• He submerged himself in his work to forget his troubles.

Typically used to describe a large, overwhelming amount of something, often related to water. It can also figuratively describe an overwhelming quantity of anything.

• The sudden deluge caused severe flooding in the area.
• The company faced a deluge of criticism after the controversial ad was released.