outmuscled
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /aʊtˈmʌsəld/
KK: /aʊtˈmʌsəld/
adjective
Definition
Having been defeated or surpassed in strength by someone or something stronger.
Example
In the final match, he felt outmuscled by his opponent, who was much larger and stronger.
Conversation
Did you see how Jake outmuscled everyone at the gym yesterday?
Yeah, he really showed off his strength this time!
I didn't expect him to be that much stronger than the rest of us.
Right? It’s impressive but also a bit intimidating.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
overpowered
outmatched
overwhelmed
Antonyms
weaker
inferior
outclassed
verb
Definition
To have been physically stronger than someone else in a competition or struggle.
Example
He outmuscled his opponent in the final match to win the championship.
Tense Forms
Past: outmuscled
Past Participle: outmuscled
Conversation
Did you see the game last night?
Yeah, it was intense! I can't believe they outmuscled the other team.
I thought our team was going to lose for sure.
Root Explanation
Outmuscled → It is formed from "out-" (meaning beyond or surpassing) and "muscle" (from Latin "musculus", meaning little mouse, which refers to the muscle's shape). The word "outmuscled" means to surpass someone in strength or physical power.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who is 'surpassing' ('out-') another in 'strength' ('muscle') — that's why outmuscled means to be stronger than someone else.
Visually Confused Words
unmuscled
muscled