overwhelmed
|o/ver/whelmed|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˌoʊvərˈwɛlmd/
🇬🇧
/ˌəʊvəˈwɛlmd/
(overwhelm)
overpowering emotion
Etymology
Etymology Information
'overwhelm' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'overwhelmen,' where 'over-' meant 'above' and 'whelmen' meant 'to turn upside down.'
Historical Evolution
'overwhelmen' transformed into the modern English word 'overwhelm.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to overturn or submerge,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to overpower in thought or feeling.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to overpower in thought or feeling.
The news overwhelmed her with emotion.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 1
feeling a strong emotional effect.
He felt overwhelmed by the amount of work.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39