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Definition of overbearing

overbearing

/ˌoʊvərˈbɛrɪŋ/
o · ver · bear · ing
Adverb:overbearingly
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overbearing Lexical Profile

overbearing Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Unpleasantly or arrogantly domineering; tending to impose one's will on others without regard for their feelings or opinions.

Example

"The committee struggled to collaborate effectively because of the chairperson's overbearing attitude."

2

Overwhelming in power, intensity, or importance; predominant.

Example

"The overbearing heat of the desert afternoon forced the archaeological team to pause their excavation."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for overbearing

• Nearby Words

overassess
overbake
overbalance
overbearing
overbearingly
overbid
overbig

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 16th century as the participial adjective of the verb overbear, from Middle English overberen, combining over- ('above, excessively') and beren ('to carry, press down').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Overbearing. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/overbearing
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