overwhelming

1 of 2

adjective

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

overwhelming

2 of 2

present participle of overwhelm

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.
Adjective
The overwhelming evidence shows the MMR vaccine is safe and effective, with a very low risk of serious side effects. — Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 25 Aug. 2026 In ancient legend, 300 Spartan warriors held the narrow pass at Thermopylae against a vast, overwhelming force, relying on a critical bottleneck to offset impossible odds. — Siddharth Misra, Fortune, 25 Aug. 2026 Having a good attitude and being able to be flexible helps the task from becoming overwhelming, Evans said. — Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026 With its four subterranean levels and three wings, even Calatrava fans admit the space can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate. — Anne Kadet, Curbed, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overwhelming

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1567, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overwhelming was in 1567

Browse Nearby Words

overwhelmed
overwhelming
overwhelmingly
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Overwhelming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overwhelming. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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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

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for overwhelming

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