overlay

verb
UK: /ˌəʊvəˈleɪ/
US: /ˌoʊvərˈleɪ/

  1. To put something on top of something else.

    1. I can overlay the image on this document.
    2. They overlayed a map showing property lines onto the aerial photograph for better visualization.

  2. To cover something with a layer or coating.

    1. We overlay the cake with chocolate frosting.
    2. The construction crew will overlay the existing road surface with a new layer of asphalt.

  3. To superimpose an image or data on something else, often electronically.

    1. The app can overlay weather data on the map.
    2. The pilot used a heads-up display to overlay critical flight information onto his field of vision.

Synonyms

cover coat superimpose veneer
overlay noun

  1. A layer of something placed over something else.

    1. The overlay protects the screen from scratches.
    2. The architect added a transparent overlay to the blueprint to show proposed changes.

  2. A decorative covering.

    1. The table had a beautiful lace overlay.
    2. The designer created a stunning visual effect using textured overlays on the lampshades.

  3. A function of displaying one set of data on top of another.

    1. I used a map overlay to find the roads.
    2. The software features an overlay that shows network activity in real time on the desktop.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "overlay" in English means: To put something on top of something else., To cover something with a layer or coating., To superimpose an image or data on something else, often electronically..

The phonetic transcription of "overlay" is /ˌəʊvəˈleɪ/ in British English and /ˌoʊvərˈleɪ/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "overlay": cover, coat, superimpose, veneer.

Example usage of "overlay": "I can overlay the image on this document.". More examples on the page.