Overawing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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overawing

[ˌoʊvərˈɔːɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

emotion, reaction

To overawe someone means to impress them greatly, often to the point of instilling a sense of fear or admiration. The term suggests an overwhelming effect that leaves the person feeling both amazed and intimidated. This feeling might arise from witnessing something grand, powerful, or awe-inspiring. Overawing often pertains to experiences that are larger than life, such as monumental achievements, breathtaking scenery, or profound wisdom.

Synonyms

impress, overwhelm, stun.

Examples of usage

  • The majestic mountains overawed the hikers.
  • Her talent for singing overawed the audience.
  • The city's skyline overawed the visitors.
  • His knowledge about history overawed the students.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Experiencing awe can lead to increased feelings of connectedness to others and a greater sense of well-being.
  • Research suggests that awe can slow down perceived time, making moments feel longer and more meaningful.

Art and Literature

  • Many artists aim to evoke a sense of awe in their work, using scale, beauty, and emotional themes to connect with viewers.
  • In literature, descriptions of vast landscapes or the greatness of characters often create an overawing feeling in the reader.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures have varied interpretations of what induces awe, from natural wonders to monumental human achievements.
  • In many spiritual traditions, overawing experiences are linked to encounters with the divine or profound wisdom.

Nature

  • Natural wonders like the Grand Canyon or the Northern Lights frequently leave visitors feeling overawed by their beauty and vastness.
  • The phenomenon of a solar eclipse can create an overawing atmosphere, captivating watchers with its rarity and majesty.

Origin of 'overawing'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the combination of 'over' meaning beyond or excessive and 'awe' signifying a feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder.
  • First known use dates back to the 19th century, reflecting the dramatic nature of feelings inspired by nature or grandeur.

The word 'overawing' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'over-' and the word 'awe.' The term 'awe' itself has its roots in the Old English word 'ege,' which means 'fear' or 'terror,' and has evolved to encompass feelings of reverence, admiration, and wonder. 'Over-' is a common English prefix that indicates excessiveness or surpassing. The construction 'overawe' suggests an extreme form of awe that not only captivates but possibly intimidates. The usage of the term has been noted in literature dating back to the early 20th century, where writers would employ it to articulate a sense of grandeur that left individuals both speechless and in reverence to the subject at hand.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,392, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.