overarching
UK: ˌəʊvərˈɑːtʃɪŋ | US: ˌoʊvərˈɑːrtʃɪŋ
adj. covering or influencing everything; comprehensive or all-encompassing
adj. forming an arch above something
overarching = over<above, across> + arch<chief, curve> + ing<adjective suffix>
- over: From Old English ofer, meaning "above, across, or beyond."
- arch: From Latin arcus (via Old French arche), meaning "curve" or "chief" (as in archbishop).
- ing: A suffix forming present participles or adjectives.
Etymology Origin:
The word overarching combines over (suggesting dominance or coverage) with arch (implying curvature or supremacy). Originally literal (e.g., "an arch spanning overhead"), it evolved metaphorically to describe something all-encompassing, like a dominant principle or theme. The blend of spatial and hierarchical imagery gives the word its dual meaning.
The report highlighted the overarching goal of reducing inequality.
Vines created an overarching canopy above the garden path.
Her speech addressed the overarching concerns of the community.
The bridge’s overarching design was both functional and elegant.
Freedom is the overarching theme of his philosophy.