Definition

In a way that is too strong or intense to be resisted or ignored.

Example

The aroma of the flowers was overpoweringly sweet, filling the entire room.

Conversation

Did you notice how overpoweringly sweet that dessert was?

Yeah, it was almost too much to handle!

I couldn't finish mine because it was so rich and overpoweringly sugary.

Same here! I think I need something savory now to balance it out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overpoweringly → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively or beyond) and "power" (from Old French *poer*, meaning ability or strength) and the suffix "-ingly" (indicating a manner of doing something). The word describes something done in a manner that is excessively strong or overwhelming.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'beyond' ('over-') what you can handle in terms of 'strength' ('power') — that's why overpoweringly means something is done in an excessively strong way.

Visually Confused Words