overwhelmingly

UK: ˌəʊvəˈwelmɪŋli | US: ˌoʊvərˈwelmɪŋli

Definition

  1. adv. to an overpowering or extreme degree

  2. adv. in a manner that produces strong emotional effect

Structure
over <excessive>whelm <cover>ing <adjective suffix>ly <adverb suffix>
Etymology

The word "overwhelmingly" originates from the verb "overwhelm," which combines "over-" (excessive) and "whelm" (to cover or submerge). "Whelm" itself derives from Old English hwelfan (to overturn). Over time, "overwhelm" evolved to mean "to overpower emotionally or physically," and the adverbial suffix "-ly" was added to form "overwhelmingly," emphasizing an extreme or dominant degree.

Examples

  1. The team won overwhelmingly, with a score of 10-1.

  2. She felt overwhelmingly grateful for their support.

  3. The evidence was overwhelmingly in favor of the defendant.

  4. The scent of flowers was overwhelmingly strong in the garden.

  5. Critics praised the film overwhelmingly for its originality.