overarching

adjective

over·​arch·​ing ˌō-vər-ˈär-chiŋ How to pronounce overarching (audio)
Synonyms of overarching
1
: forming an arch overhead
an overarching bower
an overarching bridge
2
: dominating or embracing all else
overarching goals
overarching ambition
projects of overarching public benefit—Bob Katz

Examples of overarching in a Sentence

Computer downtime is an overarching problem in all departments.
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.
Later, the behemoth Homeland Security Department was created, and an overarching director of national intelligence position was installed. — Susan Page, USA Today, 1 Sep. 2026 We are asked constantly to dilate and contract—to adjust from contemplative darkness to the California sun, from specific detail to overarching conceit, from stillness to activity. — Katy Barkan, Artforum, 1 Sep. 2026 The campaign mirrors the collection’s overarching theme for spontaneity. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 1 Sep. 2026 Every action the Administration has taken related towards Venezuela this year reflects that overarching goal. — David Blackmon, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overarching

Word History

First Known Use

1720, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of overarching was in 1720

Rhymes for overarching

See All Rhymes for overarching

Browse Nearby Words

overarch
overarching
overarm
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Cite this Entry

“Overarching.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overarching. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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