overhaul
11 synonyms for overhaul, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A thorough repair, renovation, or revision of something.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A thorough repair, renovation, or revision of something.
“The engine needs a complete overhaul after years of use.”
How to use overhaul
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
complete overhaul
overhaul the system
need an overhaul
Etymology
From over- + haul.
Full origin of overhaul →Frequently asked questions
What does “overhaul” mean?
The word “overhaul” means a thorough repair, renovation, or revision of something. In plain terms, a complete, thorough fix or redesign, not just a small repair.
How do you pronounce “overhaul”?
“Overhaul” is pronounced OH-vuh-hawl (/ˈəʊvəˌhɔːl/ in IPA).
How do you use “overhaul” in a sentence?
Here is “overhaul” used in a sentence: “The engine needs a complete overhaul after years of use.”
What part of speech is “overhaul”?
Depending on how it is used, “overhaul” can be a noun and a verb.
Is “overhaul” a common word?
“Overhaul” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “overhaul” have?
“Overhaul” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a thorough repair, renovation, or revision of something.
What is the difference between an overhaul and a repair?
An overhaul is a thorough repair, renovation, or revision of something, while a repair can be a smaller, partial fix. Overhaul implies completeness rather than addressing just one broken part.
Can overhaul be used for things other than machines?
Yes, overhaul can describe the thorough revision of systems, policies, or processes, not just physical repairs to engines or equipment.
Is an overhaul more extensive than an update?
Yes, an overhaul implies a complete repair, renovation, or revision, which is generally more extensive than a routine update.
