Overpowering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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overpowering

[ˌoʊvərˈpaʊərɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

Extremely strong or intense, overwhelming in effect or force.

Synonyms

crushing, dominating, intense, overwhelming.

Examples of usage

  • The overpowering smell of the flowers filled the entire room.
  • The heat was so overpowering that I had to leave the room.
Context #2 | Verb

action

Defeat or overcome with superior strength or power.

Synonyms

conquer, defeat, overcome, subdue.

Examples of usage

  • The army managed to overpower the enemy forces.
  • She was able to overpower her fear and perform on stage.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Overpowering emotions can lead to feelings of anxiety or stress, as when someone feels overwhelmed by situations beyond their control.
  • In psychology, when stimuli are too intense, they can cause sensory overload, making it hard to think clearly.
  • Research shows that experiences described as overpowering can impact decision-making and emotional regulation.

Literature

  • In classic literature, themes often explore overpowering love or hatred, showing how these feelings can control actions.
  • Many authors use overpowering natural elements, like storms, to symbolize intense human emotions.
  • The term is often utilized in poetry to evoke strong imagery that reflects human experience.

Culinary Arts

  • In cooking, an overpowering flavor can dominate a dish, making it essential to balance flavors carefully.
  • Certain spices, like wasabi, can be described as overpowering due to their intensity on the palate.
  • Professional chefs often aim for a harmonious blend, avoiding flavors that can overpower others in a meal.

Pop Culture

  • Songs often use the concept of overpowering feelings to convey deep emotions in lyrics, making them relatable.
  • In movies, moments of overpowering tension can be pivotal, creating suspense or drama.
  • Characters in films sometimes face overpowering adversaries, representing challenges that seem impossible to overcome.

Origin of 'overpowering'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'overpowering' comes from combining 'over' meaning 'too much' and 'powerful' from Old French, meaning 'having great strength'.
  • Historically, the prefix 'over-' indicates excess or being above normal levels.
  • The concept has been used in literature since the 14th century to describe overwhelming feelings or situations.

The word 'overpowering' originated from the combination of 'over' and 'power.' It first appeared in the 16th century and has been used to describe something that is overwhelmingly strong or intense.


See also: empower, overpower, overpowered, powered, powerful, powerfully, powerhouse, powering, powerless, powerlessly, powerlessness, powerplant, powers, superpower.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,228, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.