overcomes; overcame
-ˈkeɪm 
; overcome; overcoming
; overcome; overcoming
1
: to defeat (someone or something)
After a tough battle, they overcame the enemy.
2
: to successfully deal with or gain control of (something difficult)
a story about overcoming adversity
She overcame a leg injury and is back running again.
He overcame [=conquered] his fear of heights and climbed the ladder.
3
: to affect (someone) very strongly or severely
—usually used as (be) overcome
The people trapped in the burning building were overcome by the heat and smoke.
The family was overcome [=overwhelmed] by grief.
Cite this Entry
“Overcome.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/overcome. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.
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