Overlap
/ˌoʊvərˈlæp/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo extend over or cover part of something else; to have some of the same subject matter.
/ˌoʊvərˈlæp/
To extend over and cover a part of something else.
The roof shingles overlap each other to keep the rain out.
💡 Simply: Imagine two friends are telling you their stories. If some parts of their stories are the same, that's like an overlap! Like if they both went to the same concert.
👶 For kids: When two things are a little bit on top of each other, like when you put one piece of paper on top of another.
More Examples
Their responsibilities overlap significantly.
The two events were scheduled to overlap, causing a conflict.
How It's Used
"The tiles overlap to prevent water from seeping in."
"The signal from the two antennas overlap, creating a stronger connection."
The amount by which two things cover each other; a sharing of information, activity, or influence.
/ˈoʊvərˌlæp/
A portion where things or subjects cover or coincide.
The diagram shows the overlap of the two circles.
💡 Simply: Remember when you put two stickers on your notebook, and they're a little bit on top of each other? The part where they're together is the 'overlap'—the part that's the same.
👶 For kids: The part where two things are on top of each other.
More Examples
There's a significant overlap in the responsibilities of the two departments.
The overlap of the two studies was surprisingly small.
How It's Used
"There is a clear overlap in the job duties of these two positions."
"The overlap between the two studies was minimal."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
There's an overlap
When two or more things share something in common.
"There's a significant overlap between the skills needed for this job and the experience he has."
From 'over' + 'lap', where 'lap' refers to the edge or border of something. The combination signifies a covering or extending beyond a limit.
Historically, the word has been used in contexts related to construction and covering materials. Its application has broadened over time to include conceptual relationships.
Memory tip
Imagine two pieces of paper, one placed partly on top of the other. The part where they are together is the overlap.
Word Origin
"over (above) + lap (the edge of something)"