This is the 15800th most frequent German word.
überfällen
"Überfällen" means "to attack" or "to raid."
Here, 'überfallen' is used in the literal sense, indicating an action of robbery or assault carried out with harmful intent.
Die Bank wurde gestern von einer Gruppe Räuber überfallen.
The bank was robbed by a group of robbers yesterday.
'Überfallen' in this sentence is metaphorical, describing an emotional or mental state of overpowering thoughts or feelings.
Er fühlt sich oft von seinen eigenen Gedanken überfallen.
He often feels overwhelmed by his own thoughts.
In this context, 'überfallen' describes an unexpected and sudden occurrence, metaphorically catching the subject off guard.