Definition of overwhelm

• v. t. - 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.
• v. t. - To project or impend over threateningly.
• v. t. - To cause to surround, to cover.
• n. - The act of overwhelming.