Pronunciation: [ˌə͡ʊvəpˈa͡ʊəɹɪŋ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "overpowering" is a bit tricky when it comes to pronunciation. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˌoʊ.vərˈpaʊ.ər.ɪŋ/. The "o" in "over" is pronounced as /oʊ/, which sounds like "oh". The "w" in "power" is silent, making it /paʊ.ər/. The "-ing" ending is pronounced as /ɪŋ/, which sounds like the "ng" in "singing". When all these sounds come together, we get the word "overpowering".
The term "overpowering" refers to something that is extremely intense, dominant, or overwhelming to the point where it surpasses usual limits or control. Often used to describe a sensory experience or an emotional response, overpowering signifies an intense force that is challenging to resist or ignore. It implies exerting such a strong influence that it prevails over others or suppresses their actions or abilities.
In terms of the senses, an overpowering sensation is one that is so strong that it overwhelms or overstimulates. For example, an overpowering smell could indicate an aroma that is excessively pungent or unpleasantly strong, while an overpowering noise might denote an excessively loud or overwhelming sound.
In emotional contexts, overpowering typically denotes an intense feeling or sentiment that is difficult to manage or control. It suggests a level of intensity that can overcome an individual's ability to cope or rationalize. This can be positive, as seen in an overpowering sense of joy or love, but it can also be negative, such as an overpowering sense of grief or fear.
Overall, the term "overpowering" conveys an idea of something that is exceptionally strong, dominant, or influential, often surpassing what is usual or expected. It is a term used to describe experiences, sensations, or emotions that are excessive, overwhelming, and difficult to resist or subdue.
Bearing down by superior force; subduing; crushing.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "overpowering" can be traced back to the combination of the prefix "over-" and the verb "power".
The term "over-" comes from Old English "ofer", which indicates excess or surpassing.
The word "power" has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old French term "povoir" meaning "to be able". It ultimately originates from the Latin word "potēre", which means "to be able" or "to have power".
By combining the prefix "over-" and the verb "power", the word "overpower" emerged. Overpowering is the gerund form of "overpower", which means to defeat or subdue with force, strength, or superior power.
So, the etymology of "overpowering" suggests its meaning of being excessively strong or dominant.
