overlap

The word “overlap” means to extend over part of something else, partly covering it. In plain terms, two things partly covering, sharing, or coinciding with each other.

“Overlap” is pronounced oh-vuh-LAP (/ˌəʊvəˈlæp/ in IPA).

Here is “overlap” used in a sentence: “The tiles are laid so each one overlaps the next.”

Depending on how it is used, “overlap” can be a verb and a noun.

The word “overlap” comes from Dutch. From over- + lap (in the sense of one thing folding or lying over another); related to Dutch overlap.

“Overlap” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“Overlap” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to extend over part of something else, partly covering it.

Overlap means to extend over part of something else or to share part of the same time, space, or subject matter, while intersect more specifically means to cross at a point. Two schedules can overlap without literally crossing, but overlap is the more natural word for shared time or content.

Yes, overlap functions as both. As a verb it means to partly cover or share something with another thing, and as a noun it refers to the shared part itself, as in there is some overlap between the two reports.

Overlap describes partial sharing, where two things coincide in only some respects, while duplicate implies something is copied or repeated in full. Two job roles might overlap in a few duties without either role duplicating the other.