Overpower: meaning, definitions and examples

Same word appears twice.

Defeat is used when someone wins against their opponent, often in a competition, battle, or argument. It reflects the act of overcoming someone else's efforts.

• The home team managed to defeat their rivals in the final game
• The viral outbreak defeated the immune systems of the afflicted

Conquer is typically used in the context of winning control over a place, people, or overcoming a significant challenge, often used historically or in metaphorical sense.

• Alexander the Great is famous for his campaigns to conquer vast territories
• She conquered her fear of public speaking over time

Subdue is used when someone brings something or someone under control, often through force or persuasion. It has a slightly more negative or harsh connotation.

• The firefighters worked tirelessly to subdue the flames
• The leader tried to subdue the dissent within his party

Use 'overpower' when describing a situation where someone or something is defeated or controlled with great strength or force, often in a combat or conflict scenario.

• The bigger team was able to overpower their rivals in the last quarter of the game.
• The scent of the flowers was so strong that it could easily overpower anyone entering the room.

Use 'overwhelm' to describe being overcome with emotions, responsibilities, or pressure. It often implies a sense of being unable to cope or manage the situation.

• She was overwhelmed with joy when she received the news of her promotion.
• The sheer volume of assignments can overwhelm even the most diligent students.

Use 'consume' when talking about the act of eating, drinking, or using up resources. It can also refer to being fully absorbed or obsessed with something.

• She was so hungry that she consumed the entire meal in just a few minutes.
• He was consumed by his work and had little time for anything else.

Use 'engulf' to describe something being completely surrounded or covered, often by natural forces like water or fire. It conveys a sense of being swallowed or overwhelmed by something powerful.

• The house was rapidly engulfed in flames before the fire truck arrived.
• The small boat was engulfed by the towering waves during the storm.

Used when someone or something is physically or mentally stronger and takes control forcefully. It often has a negative connotation.

• The police managed to overpower the thief
• Her emotions threatened to overpower her

Used to describe a situation where one person or group has power over another. Often seen in competitive contexts like business, sports, or social hierarchies, and can have a negative or neutral connotation.

• The company's dominance in the market is undisputed
• He has a dominance that makes everyone follow him

Used when talking about the state or condition of being superior to all others in authority, power, or status. Often used in political, social, or military contexts, and can have negative connotations, especially in discussions about racial or national superiority.

• The country fought for naval supremacy
• Their belief in their own supremacy led to conflict

Used when someone has the power to influence or direct behavior or events. It can be neutral or positive depending on the context.

• He has control over his company
• You need to control your anger