overpowering

Overpowering is the act or quality of overcoming resistance or dominance by superior force, strength, or influence. As a verb, overpower means to defeat or subdue someone or something by superior power; as an adjective, overpowering describes something that is overwhelming or dominates perception or response.

In physical contexts, overpowering often describes defeating an opponent by greater strength or numbers, such as in sports, combat, or demonstrations of endurance. The outcome is typically decisive and rapid, though not always permanent, and may depend on technique, strategy, or leverage.

In technical contexts, overpowering refers to applying more electrical or mechanical power to a device or system than it is designed to handle. This can cause overheating, damage, or failure. Protective measures—such as fuses, circuit breakers, proper ratings, and safe operating procedures—are designed to prevent overpowering conditions.

In social and psychological contexts, an overpowering presence or argument can dominate discussions, decisions, or emotions, sometimes suppressing dissent or autonomy. Discussions of power, consent, and coercion are relevant when assessing such dynamics.

In sensory terms, an overpowering smell, taste, or sound is one that is so intense that it blocks other stimuli or overwhelmingly shapes perception.

See also: overwhelm, dominance, coercion, overpower.