Synonyms for

Overwhelmed

Verb / ˌəʊvɜ:ˈwelmd / / ˌəʊvɜ:ˈhwelmd / Another word for overwhelmed — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To be completely overcome or overpowered by something, especially a feeling or emotion.

Synonyms & similar words

submerge overmaster sweepover overwhelm deluge overcome drown whelm overpower overtake floodout burdened crushed defeated devastated disheartened distressed dominated impressed inundated loaded oppressed overtaken overworked overcome saturated submerged swamped whipped

Synonyms by register

Formal

inundated submerged overpowered discomfited

Informal

swamped snowed under buried slammed

Literary

deluged engulfed drowned

Antonyms

calm composed collected unbothered serene relaxed at ease

Common collocations

  • feeling overwhelmed
  • overwhelmed by emotion
  • overwhelmed with work
  • completely overwhelmed
  • overwhelmed by the response
  • overwhelmed by grief
  • overwhelmed by the beauty

Word family

noun overwhelm
verb overwhelm
adjective overwhelmed

Usage note

This word describes a state of being overcome by too much of something, often to the point of being unable to cope. It can be used for both positive and negative situations, but the connotation is generally one of distress or inability to manage.

Example sentences

  1. I felt overwhelmed when I saw how much cleaning I had to do.
  2. She was overwhelmed with joy when she found out she got the job.
  3. The team was overwhelmed by the strength of their opponent.
  4. He was overwhelmed with emotion when he saw his newborn baby.
  5. The teacher was overwhelmed by the number of students in her class.

Quotes

  • I am overwhelmed by the grace and persistence of my people.
  • You can't overwhelm a dragon, unless you bring a big enough sword.
  • I've been overwhelmed by this completely unexpected renaissance and very grateful for it.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words