as in extensive
formal
including or influencing every part of something
the book's overarching theme Computer downtime is an overarching problem in all departments.
Related Words
Relevance
Dissimilar Words
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of overarching
The Waste Land’s overarching theme was the disillusionment and disgust of the period after World War I (1914–18).
—
René Ostberg,
Encyclopedia Britannica,
18 June 2026
Its catalog is overarching but many of the materials remain the same.
—
Kelly Dawson,
Architectural Digest,
17 June 2026
However, they're not really connected to an overarching ideology.
—
Jeff Wagner,
CBS News,
17 June 2026
In Spielberg’s vision, Margaret is the performer who is required to give of herself, indeed too much of herself, for the needs of the overarching plot and the common good.
—
Richard Brody,
New Yorker,
16 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for overarching
René Ostberg,
Encyclopedia Britannica,
18 June 2026
Its catalog is overarching but many of the materials remain the same.
—
Kelly Dawson,
Architectural Digest,
17 June 2026
However, they're not really connected to an overarching ideology.
—
Jeff Wagner,
CBS News,
17 June 2026
In Spielberg’s vision, Margaret is the performer who is required to give of herself, indeed too much of herself, for the needs of the overarching plot and the common good.
—
Richard Brody,
New Yorker,
16 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for overarching
Recent Examples of Synonyms for overarching
Adjective
-
Barrett and Jackson each reported the most extensive travel of court justices promoting their books in 2025.
-
Just south of the circle, subsequent construction of the Icon Miami complex, though, destroyed extensive additional evidence of Tequesta occupation in the bedrock, including scores of holes likely dug for wooden dwelling support posts.
Adjective
-
Little’s lack of response to a possible return that offseason resulted in general manager Ned Colletti pursuing other options.
-
While unions secured general salary increases last year to offset the salary reductions associated with the leave program, the agreements did not include similar increases in July 2026.
Adjective
-
Margarine naturally contains essential fatty acids, which are important for cell function and overall health.
-
That film, starring David Corenswet as the Man of Steel, ignited to $125 million and ended its run with $618 million, a promising enough tally amid the overall decline of comic book adaptations.
Adjective
-
The compliance requirements at a financial institution look nothing like those at a consumer software company, and generic best practices applied uniformly won't serve either one well.
-
Sensipar, which is also sold under the generic name cinacalcet hydrochloride, is prescribed to patients with chronic kidney disease and high levels of calcium in the blood related to parathyroid gland conditions, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Adjective
-
When World Cup season descends upon soccer-mad Brazil, green and yellow banners decorate restaurants, bars and apartment buildings, streets are painted with flags and soccer balls, and discussions of the beloved national team's games are ubiquitous.
-
Already this year, the elusive-yet-ubiquitous producer is credited on Earl Sweatshirt and MIKE’s POMPEII // UTILITY, a song with Compton’s $amaad, and an ambient instrumental tape.
Adjective
-
Always consult your vet for comprehensive advice on managing pet anxiety.
-
For the dedicated enthusiast, the Wright Around Chicago bus tour, operated by the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust, is a comprehensive day out.
Adjective
-
Organizing the festival during wartime has given it a broader purpose, Isaienko said.
-
Products with a broad range, such as beer, would benefit from multiple subcategories, ensuring that the production process is not prioritized over the alcoholic content.
Adjective
-
It’s also widely seen as part of a broader vision to ensure national security under Xi, who came to power in 2012 following widespread 2008 protests in Tibet and deadly unrest in Xinjiang, home to its Uyghur minority.
-
Polis decided to commute Peters' sentence last month, drawing widespread criticism from Colorado Democrats, including both Weiser and Bennet.
Cite this Entry
“Overarching.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overarching. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
