Overwhelm /(?)/

imp. & p. p. Overwhelmed; p. pr. & vb. n. Overwhelming

1. To cover over completely, as by a great wave; to overflow and bury beneath; to ingulf; hence, figuratively, to immerse and bear down; to overpower; to crush; to bury; to oppress, etc., overpoweringly.

   The sea overwhelmed their enemies.

   Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me.

   Foul deeds will rise, Though all the earth o'erwhelm them.

   Gaza yet stands; but all her sons are fallen, All in a moment overwhelmed and fallen.

2. To project or impend over threateningly.

   His louering brows o'erwhelming his fair sight.

3. To cause to surround, to cover.

1. The act of overwhelming. [R.]