overwhelm — to defeat someone or something by using a lot of force
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to defeat someone or something by using a lot of force
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌoʊvərˈwelm/
Example Sentences
- My mom was overwhelmed when she saw my messy room - she didn't know where to start cleaning!
- The small coffee shop was overwhelmed by customers after going viral on social media.
- I was overwhelmed by the kindness of strangers who helped me when I was lost.
overwhelm
VERB[/ˌoʊvərˈwelm/]
to defeat someone or something by using a lot of force
A huge wave of paperwork crashes down and overwhelms the new intern at her desk.
OVER(above) + WHELM(engulf) — a giant wave crashing OVER the ship to engulf it will overwhelm the crew.
He held tightly to the helm, but the giant storm began to overwhelm his ship.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word originated in Middle English during the 14th century from the combination of 'over' (above, upon) and 'whelm' (to overturn or submerge). The compound developed to mean 'to cover or submerge completely,' later extending to the sense of 'to overpower or subdue utterly.'
Breakdown
over- (completely, excessively) + whelm (to overturn, cover, or submerge). The root 'whelm' derives from Old English hwelfan, meaning to turn over or capsize.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My mom was overwhelmed when she saw my messy room - she didn't know where to start cleaning!”
“The small coffee shop was overwhelmed by customers after going viral on social media.”
“I was overwhelmed by the kindness of strangers who helped me when I was lost.”
“He was overwhelmed by the number of dating apps available - there were too many choices!”
📚Related Words
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