Overwhelm

Definition

Overwhelm generally refers to the action of being submerged or buried under a large amount of something, whether it be emotions, tasks, or physical objects. It can also mean to defeat someone or something by using a lot of force.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌoʊvərˈwɛlm/
• Respelling: oh-ver-WHELM (with "oh" as in "go," "ver" as in "very," and "WHELM" as in "well")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌəʊvəˈwɛlm/
• Respelling: oh-ver-WHELM (with "oh" as in "go," "ver" as in "very," and "WHELM" as in "well")

In both dialects, "overwhelm" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "WHELM." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "oh-ver-WHELM."

Etymology

"Overwhelm" is derived from Middle English "overwhelmen", which means "to turn upside down", from "over" + "whelmen" (to turn over, to cover).

Derivatives

• Overwhelming
• Overwhelmingly
• Overwhelmer
• Overwhelmed
• Overwhelmingness

Synonyms

• Engulf
• Submerge
• Bury

Antonyms

• Underwhelm
• Neglect
• Release

Usage

• Often used to describe intense emotions or situations where there's an excessive amount of something that might be hard to manage or cope with.

Related Terms

• Engulf
• Subdue
• Inundate
• Deluge
• Flood

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To bury or drown beneath a large mass or amount.
• Example: "The small boat was overwhelmed by the gigantic waves."

• To have a strong emotional effect on.
• Example: "She was overwhelmed with joy when she heard the news."

• To defeat (someone or something) completely.
• Example: "The smaller army was overwhelmed by the larger forces."