Overawed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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overawed
[oʊvərˈɔː ]
Definition
state of feeling
Overawed refers to a state of being filled with awe or admiration, often to the point where one feels overwhelmed. It suggests a profound sense of respect mixed with fear or wonder. This feeling can occur in response to something majestic, sublime, or significantly impressive. People may feel overawed when they encounter extraordinary natural beauty or witness remarkable achievements.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She was overawed by the breathtaking views of the mountains.
- The children were overawed by the magician's amazing tricks.
- He felt overawed in the presence of such great talent.
Translations
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Origin of 'overawed'
The term 'overawed' is formed from the combination of 'over-' and 'awed'. The prefix 'over-' suggests excessiveness or an overwhelming degree, while 'awed' is derived from the Old English word 'ege', meaning fear or dread, which evolved into 'awe' in the Middle English period. The concept of awe encompasses a mixture of reverence, admiration, and fear, often inspired by something grand or powerful. The use of 'overawed' indicates not just a simple feeling of awe but an intensified emotion that signifies a deeper psychological response to something extraordinarily impressive or intimidating. It has been in use since the late 19th century and embodies the complex emotional experience that comes with great beauty or authority.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #28,869, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
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- 28866 reinfection
- 28867 gustatory
- 28868 paratroopers
- 28869 overawed
- 28870 lurching
- 28871 secant
- 28872 ferociously
- ...