a massive inexorable force that seems to crush, have power over or influence everything in its way

To ruminate is to think carefully and deeply about something.

// We ruminated over the implications of our decision.

Canard refers to a false report or story, or to a belief or rumor that isn't true. It can also refer to a kind of airplane as well as to a kind of small airfoil.

// The book unfortunately repeats some of history's oldest canards.

Sarcophagus refers to a coffin, and specifically a stone coffin.

// The crypt under the abbey church contains the sarcophagus of the monastery's founding abbot.

To presage something is to give or be a sign that it will happen in the future. Presage is a formal synonym for foreshadowing, foretelling, and prediction.

// The sudden gloom and ominous dark clouds clearly presaged a nasty storm.

Disputatious is a formal word used to describe someone who often disagrees and argues with other people (in other words, someone inclined to dispute). It can also describe something marked or characterized by arguments or controversies, or something that provokes debate or controversy.

// The podcast is hosted by a disputatious pair whose sparring has drawn legions of listeners.

To encroach is to gradually move or go into an area that is beyond the usual or desired limits, or to gradually take or begin to use or affect something that belongs to, or is being used by, someone else. Encroach is often followed by on or upon.

// Conflicts between people and bears increase as humans continue to encroach on bear territory.

// They argue that the law would encroach on states' authority.