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overawe

verb

/ˌoʊvərˈɑ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of overawe

To impress or intimidate someone so much that they feel a sense of astonishment or fear.
"The enormous crowd that gathered at the stadium would overawe any performer."

Detailed meaning of overawe

When someone or something overawes, it exudes an aura of dominance or superiority that leaves others feeling overwhelmed or subdued in its presence. This can occur through various means, such as through the use of imposing language, formidable physical presence, or an overwhelming show of force. The intention behind "overawe" is to create a sense of respect, fear, or reverence in others, often influencing their behavior or reactions. This term conveys the idea of a strong and imposing influence that leaves a lasting impact, shaping the perceptions and actions of those who are subjected to its formidable presence.

Example sentences containing overawe

1. Her confidence and expertise in the subject overawed the entire class.
2. The majestic mountain scenery never failed to overawe visitors.
3. The powerful speech by the leader had the ability to overawe the crowd.
4. His talent on the guitar never ceased to overawe those who heard him play.
5. The sheer size and grandeur of the cathedral overawed tourists.
6. The ancient ruins overawed historians with their historical significance.

History and etymology of overawe

The verb 'overawe' has its etymological origins in Middle English. It is a combination of 'over,' meaning 'beyond' or 'to a great extent,' and 'awe,' which means 'a feeling of profound respect and fear.' In essence, 'overawe' means 'to inspire such a deep sense of awe or fear in someone that it goes beyond the ordinary.' When you 'overawe' someone, you impress or intimidate them to such an extent that they are left with a profound sense of astonishment or fear. This term is often used to describe individuals or situations that have a commanding or imposing presence, capable of eliciting a strong emotional response, whether it be admiration, respect, or a sense of intimidation.

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Further usage examples of overawe

1. Her intelligence and wisdom overawed even the most seasoned scholars.
2. The thunderous applause from the audience overawed the young actor.
3. The intricate artwork on display had the power to overawe art enthusiasts.
4. The sudden appearance of the grizzly bear overawed the hikers.
5. His charisma and charm never failed to overawe those he met.
6. His intellectual brilliance never failed to overawe his peers.
7. Their show of wealth and power was meant to overawe the local population.
8. His first tour of the mansion was enough to overawe him.
9. The natural beauty of the place could overawe anyone with a love for landscapes.
10. The imposing architecture of the castle can overawe the most seasoned traveler.
11. The vast expanse of the universe can overawe anyone looking through a telescope.
12. The speaker's eloquent words were designed to overawe the audience.
13. The grandeur of the palace never failed to overawe its visitors.
14. The giant waves of the sea might overawe anyone not accustomed to its power.
15. The magnificence of the opera is sure to overawe a first-time attendee.
16. The way she mastered the piano at such a young age would overawe even professional musicians.
17. His incredible knowledge of science is bound to overawe anyone who converses with him.
18. The sheer size of the elephant can overawe people seeing it for the first time.
19. His legendary feats of strength can overawe any budding athlete.
20. Her perfect pitch could overawe any music lover.
21. The sheer mass of the cathedral was designed to overawe the parishioners.
22. His ability to solve complex mathematical problems can overawe even the brightest minds.
23. Her confidence and courage would overawe any of her competitors.
24. The enormous height of the mountain can overawe any climber attempting to scale it.