overwhelm

1. 1

   To engulf, surge over and submerge.

   • The dinghy was overwhelmed by the great wave.
2. 2

   To overpower, crush.

   • In December 1939 the Soviet Union attacked Finland with overwhelming force.
3. 3

   To overpower emotionally.

   • He was overwhelmed with guilt.
   • Joy overwhelmed her when she realized that she had won a million dollars.
4. 4

   To cause to surround, to cover.

   • I lay Turpentine all over the same: then I overwhelm a broader pipe about the first

syn. grip · ravish

ant. underwhelm

1. 1

   The state or condition of being overwhelmed.countableuncountable

   • The fact is, that full permeation and understanding of an overwhelm or trauma makes it cease as an overwhelm or trauma.
   • And what you’re feeling is normal in a dangerous situation — overwhelm and guilt when someone is harmed.