Definition of overlienext
1
as in to overlap
to lie over parts of one another the puzzle pieces overlay one another in complete disarray on the floor

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in to coat
to form a layer over there will be freezing rain tonight, so we can expect to find a thick layer of ice overlying the car windshield in the morning

Synonyms & Similar 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 overlie The results are somewhat ambiguous as to how much ice may lurk unseen beneath layers of overlying ice-sparse material. K. R. Callaway, Scientific American, 18 Mar. 2026 But first, in order to access the SMAS, surgeons have to peel back the overlying skin. Jolene Edgar, Allure, 16 Mar. 2026 As Taylor Glacier slides downstream, the overlying ice mass compresses the subglacial channels, building up tremendous pressure. Simone Valesini, Wired News, 24 Feb. 2026 These pulses, the team says, are closely tied to overlying tectonic plates and play a key role in the slow rifting of the African continent. Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for overlie
Recent Examples of Synonyms for overlie
Verb
  • The company also expects to rationalize and consolidate systems and processes, while eliminating overlapping corporate and centralized resources.
    Jeff Marks, CNBC, 2 Sep. 2026
  • Because symptoms associated with perimenopause can overlap with other medical concerns, talk with a qualified healthcare provider about any new, persistent, severe or concerning symptoms — regardless of your score.
    Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 1 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Add chicken back to sauce and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until chicken is coated and warmed through.
    Elizabeth Nelson, Southern Living, 2 Sep. 2026
  • Lift up pan from burner and pour ¼ cup batter onto one side, then immediately tilt pan and swirl batter to coat surface evenly.
    Julia Sherman, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Also in the courtroom was Davis’ son, who covered his face with one hand.
    Jonathan Landrum Jr, Chicago Tribune, 1 Sep. 2026
  • Active managers can also adjust strike prices, expiration dates and the proportion of each holding covered by options as market conditions shift.
    Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 1 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Overlie.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overlie. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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