overwhelm
word
Definition
To make someone feel so much emotion, stress, or work that it is hard to cope; can also mean to defeat completely.
Usage & Nuances
Usually formal or semi-formal. Common with feelings ('overwhelm with emotion'), workload ('overwhelmed by work'), or situations. Less often used for physical conquest. Compare to 'overpower' (force) and 'overload' (too much work or info).
Spanish: abrumar - agobiarPortuguese (BR): sobrecarregar - esmagar (sentimentos)Portuguese (PT): sobrecarregar - esmagar (sentimentos)Chinese (Simplified): 使不知所措 - 压倒Chinese (Traditional): 使不知所措 - 壓倒Hindi: अभिभूत कर देना - दबा देनाArabic: يغمر - يربك
Example Sentences
Too much homework can overwhelm students.
basic
Loud noises can overwhelm small children.
basic
I don't want to overwhelm you with too much information.
basic
She was overwhelmed with joy when she saw her family again.
natural
I get overwhelmed whenever everything happens at once.
natural
His kindness can really overwhelm you if you’re not used to it.
natural