overlord
|o-ver-lord|
🇺🇸
/ˈoʊvərˌlɔrd/
🇬🇧
/ˈəʊvəˌlɔːd/
ruler above others
Etymology
'overlord' originates from Middle English, specifically the elements 'over' + 'lord', where 'over' meant 'above' and 'lord' came from Old English 'hlāford' meaning 'master'.
'overlord' was formed in Middle English as a compound of 'over-' (from Old English 'ofer') and 'lord' (from Old English 'hlāford', originally from 'hlafweard' meaning 'loaf-guardian'), and it developed into the modern English word 'overlord'.
Initially it meant 'a superior feudal lord who had authority over other lords'; over time it broadened to mean any person or body with dominant control, often used figuratively and sometimes with a negative or ironic tone.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a lord who has authority over other lords; a superior feudal ruler who demands service or tribute.
The overlord demanded yearly tribute from the smaller estates.
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Noun 2
a person or institution that has dominant control or influence over a particular area or group (often used figuratively).
Many feared the new corporate overlord who controlled all the local media.
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Last updated: 2026/01/13 21:57