overarching

adjective

over·​arch·​ing ˌō-vər-ˈär-chiŋ How to pronounce overarching (audio)
Synonyms of overarchingnext
1
: forming an arch overhead
an overarching bower
an overarching bridge
2
: dominating or embracing all else
overarching goals
overarching ambition
projects of overarching public benefitBob Katz

Examples of overarching in a Sentence

Computer downtime is an overarching problem in all departments.
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.
There’s also the overarching question of Miami’s future in the ACC to explore. Dave Hyde, Sun Sentinel, 2 May 2026 But Parikh says one of the biggest overarching challenges is the persistent stigma and reluctance to discuss this part of the body. Yuki Noguchi, NPR, 30 Apr. 2026 But the prosecutors’ overarching theory of a grand scheme to defraud the Holy See was thrown out. ABC News, 30 Apr. 2026 Dan Drazen, Trinity’s vice president of development, said the overarching redevelopment design strives to make Mary Shepard Place more resemble what the neighborhood looked like prior to the construction of Bellevue Square in 1942 and what still exists today in the surrounding area. Kenneth R. Gosselin, Hartford Courant, 30 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overarching

Word History

First Known Use

1720, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of overarching was in 1720

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Cite this Entry

“Overarching.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overarching. Accessed 5 May. 2026.

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