overwhelmed
UK: ˌəʊvəˈwɛlmd | US: ˌoʊvərˈwɛlmd
adj. 1. feeling completely defeated or unable to cope due to excessive emotional or mental pressure.
vt. 2. (past tense) to have overpowered or submerged someone/something with force or intensity.
The word traces back to Middle English "whelmen" (to overturn or submerge), likely derived from Old English -hwealfan (to cover). The prefix "over-" intensifies the action, creating the sense of being utterly submerged or overpowered. By the 16th century, "overwhelm" evolved to describe emotional inundation, mirroring the physical act of being buried under weight.
She felt overwhelmed by the workload after her promotion.
The coastal town was overwhelmed by the tsunami.
His kindness overwhelmed her, bringing tears to her eyes.
The team was overwhelmed by the opponent's aggressive strategy.
Don't let yourself get overwhelmed by minor setbacks.