What does "overwhelmingly" mean?

1. (mostly or by a large majority) used to say that almost everyone or everything in a group is the same. 2. (very strongly or intensely) in a way that is very powerful or feels like too much to handle.

overwhelmingly

adv.

US //ˌoʊvɝˈwɛɫmɪŋɫi// UK //ˌəʊvəwˈɛlmɪŋli// over·whelm·ing·ly

1 mostly or by a large majority (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

used to say that almost everyone or everything in a group is the same.

predominantly or by a vast majority; used to describe a result or opinion that is nearly universal.

Example

The local community voted overwhelmingly in favour of the new park.

Example

Despite the controversial nature of the proposal, the board voted overwhelmingly to approve the merger during the final session.
- slightly
- narrowly
2 very strongly or intensely (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

in a way that is very powerful or feels like too much to handle.

to an intense or irresistible degree; used to describe emotions or physical forces that are difficult to oppose.

Example

The smell of the flowers in the small room was overwhelmingly sweet.

Example

The evidence presented by the prosecution was overwhelmingly convincing, leaving the defence with very few options for appeal.
- mildly

Origin

From overwhelming + -ly.

Word family

Adjectiveoverwhelming
Adverboverwhelmingly