overwhelming

adjective

over·​whelm·​ing ˌō-vər-ˈ(h)wel-miŋ How to pronounce overwhelming (audio)
: tending or serving to overwhelm
overwhelming force
overwhelming evidence
also : extreme, great
overwhelming indifference
an overwhelming majority

Examples of overwhelming in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The restaurant offers a menu that strikes the perfect balance of enough variety without being overwhelming. Susmita Baral, Travel + Leisure, 14 July 2025 The weather service also issued a flood advisory for Edwards and Real counties until 2:30 p.m., citing minor flooding in low-lying areas with poor drainage and water overwhelming roadways. Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 14 July 2025 The Faculty Senate passed a second resolution concerning the selection of an interim president which passed by an overwhelming 44-3 margin. Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes.com, 13 July 2025 For too long, youth leaving foster care and those experiencing homelessness faced overwhelming barriers to stability — trauma, lack of family support and few housing options. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 12 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for overwhelming

Word History

First Known Use

1567, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overwhelming was in 1567

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Overwhelming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overwhelming. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

overwhelming

adjective
over·​whelm·​ing ˌō-vər-ˈhwel-miŋ How to pronounce overwhelming (audio)
-wel-
: great sense 4, extreme
an overwhelming response
overwhelmingly adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on overwhelming

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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