v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Overwhelmed p. pr. & vb. n. Overwhelming. ] [ 1913 Webster ] 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. [ 1913 Webster ] The sea overwhelmed their enemies. Ps. lxxviii. 53. [ 1913 Webster ] Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me. Ps. lv. 5. [ 1913 Webster ] Foul deeds will rise, Though all the earth o'erwhelm them. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ] Gaza yet stands; but all her sons are fallen, All in a moment overwhelmed and fallen. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. To project or impend over threateningly. [ 1913 Webster ] His louering brows o'erwhelming his fair sight. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. To cause to surround, to cover. Papin. [ 1913 Webster ] |