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
  • This offseason, the Jets inked Demario Davis and David Onyemata, both of whom overlapped with Glenn in New Orleans.
    Jonathan Jones, New York Times, 19 Aug. 2026
  • The defensive end and former Browns head coach overlapped in Cleveland for three seasons.
    CBS News, CBS News, 19 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Trump’s desire, which is to coat the granite facade with white paint, has been met with significant pushback from historians who say that covering the historic building’s granite exterior with paint could trap moisture and damage the stone.
    News Desk, Artforum, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Last year’s winner was the Crab and Mozzarella Arancini, which included Maryland blue crab meat, white rice with herbs and mozzarella coated in Italian breadcrumbs, served with marinara sauce.
    Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • During Sunday's game in Atlanta between the Dream and the Fever, at least three fans were asked by WNBA security personnel to cover shirts bearing messages about transgender women participating in women's sports.
    S.E. Jenkins, CBS News, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Fireplaces are stocked with fragrant piñon wood, making winter stays especially cozy, while silk covers conceal TVs and handmade Le Creuset dishware keep modern amenities from disrupting the mood.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Overlie.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overlie. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

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