overlay

1 of 2

verb

over·​lay ˌō-vər-ˈlā 

overlaid ˌō-vər-ˈlād  ; overlaying

transitive verb

1

a

: to lay or spread over or across : superimpose

b

: to prepare an overlay for

2

: overlie sense 2

overlay

2 of 2

noun

over·​lay ˈō-vər-ˌlā 

: a covering either permanent or temporary: such as

a

: an ornamental veneer

b

: a decorative and contrasting design or article placed on top of a plain one

c

: a transparent sheet containing graphic matter to be superimposed on another sheet

Synonyms

Verb

• blanket
• carpet
• coat
• cover
• overlie
• overspread
• sheet

Examples of overlay in a Sentence

Verb

you should apply a coat of primer first, and then overlay it with two coats of paint

cedar shingles overlaying one another on the roof

Noun

a silver ring with gold overlay

The wooden table has a marble overlay.

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

Amazon uses post-event analytics to overlay incidents with venue maps, refining strategies for the following year. —Tony Bradley, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024

The final campaign shots are overlaid with the ultimate reason why they were chosen by their friends to be in this campaign alongside Beer. —Lisa Lockwood, WWD, 6 Dec. 2024

Noun

In addition to creating overlays and stealing texts, the malware can make and block phone calls, take photos and screenshots and send those to its handlers. —Zak Doffman, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024

These shoes have mesh uppers with durable overlays, cushioned midsoles, and high-traction rubber outsoles for excellent performance on every hike. —Anne Taylor, Travel + Leisure, 2 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

overlay

1 of 2 verb

over·​lay ˌō-vər-ˈlā 

overlaid -ˈlād  ; overlaying

1

: to lay or spread over or across

2

: overlie

overlay

2 of 2 noun

over·​lay ˈō-vər-ˌlā 

: something (as a veneer on wood) that is overlaid