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steamroller

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈstiːmˌroʊlər/

KK: /ˈstimˌroʊlər/

intransitive verb
Definition

To move forward with great power or force, often overwhelming anything in the way.


Example

The team steamrolled through the competition, winning every match easily.


Tense Forms

Past: steamrolled

Past Participle: steamrolled


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see how that team just steamrollered through the competition last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was impressive! They really dominated the game.
Sloth A
I know, right? They just seemed to steamroller everyone in their path.
Sloth B
Absolutely! It was like watching a freight train.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
overwhelm
crush
dominate
Antonyms
yield
submit
retreat
noun
Definition

A large machine that uses steam to smooth and flatten surfaces, especially roads, or a powerful force that can easily overcome obstacles.


Example

The construction crew used a steamroller to prepare the road for paving.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that construction site?
Sloth B
Yeah, I noticed they were using a big steamroller over there.
Sloth A
It looks like they're really pushing to finish the road work quickly.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To crush or overwhelm someone or something in a forceful way, often without regard for their feelings or opinions.


Example

The company steamrolled its competitors by using aggressive marketing strategies.


Tense Forms

Past: steamrolled

Past Participle: steamrolled


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see how they just steamroller through the competition last week?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was impressive! They really didn’t give anyone a chance.
Sloth A
I wonder if they can keep that momentum going in the next match.
Root Explanation

Steamroller → The word is a compound of "steam" (from Old English *steam*, meaning vapor or gas) and "roller" (from Old English *rolla*, meaning a cylindrical object). A steamroller is a machine that uses steam power to roll over and flatten surfaces, particularly in road construction.

Memory Tip

Imagine a machine that uses 'vapor' ('steam') to 'flatten' ('roller') surfaces — that's what a steamroller does.

Visually Confused Words
stroller
Is this page helpful?
For sure, that steamroller is definitely making a difference!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bulldozer
juggernaut
force
Antonyms
feather
weakness
gentleness
Sloth B
If they do, it’ll be hard for anyone to catch up!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
crush
flatten
suppress
Antonyms
build
raise
uplift