overlord

noun

over·​lord ˈō-vər-ˌlȯrd How to pronounce overlord (audio)
1
: a lord over other lords : a lord paramount
2
a
: an absolute or supreme ruler
b
: one having great power or authority
a corporate overlord
overlordship
ˈō-vər-ˌlȯrd-ˌship How to pronounce overlord (audio)
ˌō-vər-ˈlȯrd-
noun

Examples of overlord in a Sentence

He is the overlord of the underground gambling industry.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Here the overlords do not wield violence themselves but quietly condone it for the sake of preserving the order on which their privilege rests. Richard Brody, New Yorker, 30 July 2025 The question was whether these self-assembly processes could work with no human overlords around. Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 27 July 2025 The data center did indeed get built, and its corporate overlord is now one of Joe’s patrons. Nate Jones, Vulture, 18 July 2025 Audiences can often sense the corporate overlords’ gruff hands pushing these previously distinct programs together. Ben Travers, IndieWire, 10 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for overlord

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of overlord was in the 13th century

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Cite this Entry

“Overlord.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overlord. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

overlord

noun
over·​lord ˈō-vər-ˌlȯ(ə)rd How to pronounce overlord (audio)
1
: a lord who rules over other lords
2
: an absolute or supreme ruler

More from Merriam-Webster on overlord

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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