Overawing: meaning, definitions and examples
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overawing
[ˌoʊvərˈɔːɪŋ ]
Definition
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
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "overawing" in other languages:
🇵🇹 impressionante
🇮🇳 भयभीत करने वाला
🇩🇪 einschüchternd
🇮🇩 menyita
🇺🇦 вражаючий
🇵🇱 przytłaczający
🇯🇵 圧倒的な
🇫🇷 impressionnant
🇪🇸 imponente
🇹🇷 baskın
🇰🇷 압도적인
🇸🇦 مهيب
🇨🇿 ohromující
🇸🇰 ohromujúci
🇨🇳 压倒性的
🇸🇮 prevladujoč
🇮🇸 yfirþyrmandi
🇰🇿 бастырғыш
🇬🇪 დამთრგუნველი
🇦🇿 qorxuducu
🇲🇽 imponente