Overpowering

Overpowering describes something so intense or strong that it completely dominates, subdues, or overwhelms. It can refer to physical forces, like a strong wave or a powerful gust of wind, or to less tangible things, such as emotions, arguments, or even scents. It suggests a sense of being unable to resist or overcome the thing in question, leaving one feeling helpless or insignificant in its presence. The effect can be either positive (in the sense of awe or inspiration) or negative (in the sense of being suffocated or defeated), depending on the context.

Overpowering meaning with examples

• The Overpowering aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the kitchen, tempting everyone with its sweet and yeasty scent, completely drowning out other, more subtle smells.
• Her grief was an Overpowering wave, crashing over her with such force that she couldn't breathe, leaving her numb and unable to function for days.
• The defendant presented such an Overpowering array of evidence, including irrefutable video footage, that the jury had no choice but to acquit him of all charges.
• The sheer scale of the Grand Canyon was Overpowering, its vastness stretching as far as the eye could see, dwarfing any sense of personal significance and truly inspiring awe.