Definition

To crush or defeat someone or something completely and easily, often in a forceful or aggressive way.

Example

The team managed to steamroll their opponents in the championship game.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how they just steamroll through that team in the finals?

Yeah, it was incredible! They didn't stand a chance.

I know, right? It felt like they were just steamrolling everyone this season.

Absolutely! They’re definitely the team to beat next year.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Steamroll → The word is formed from "steam" (from Old English *steam*, meaning vapor or gas) and "roll" (from Old English *rollian*, meaning to turn over or move in a circular motion). The term describes the action of moving forward with overwhelming force, akin to a steam engine rolling over obstacles.

Memory Tip

Think of a powerful steam engine moving forward and 'rolling' over everything in its path — that's how 'steamroll' means to overwhelm or dominate.

Visually Confused Words