Overlapping: Definition, Usage & Common Examples

Meaning 1：partly covering (overlapping)

overlapping 🔊

/ˌoʊvərˈlæpɪŋ/

adj.

When two or more things cover or share the same part of something, like time, area, or interest.

Overlapping concept illustrated with blue and yellow transparent sheets creating a green overlap area.

partly covering 🔊

➕

/ˈpɑːrtli ˈkʌvərɪŋ/

adj.

Having parts that coincide or share the same space, time, or domain.

📁 Category：Social Economy 🔖 Level：intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Derived from 'over' (above) + 'lap' (to fold/wrap) + '-ing' (adjective suffix).

💡 Mnemonic

Think of overlapping shingles on a roof — one partly covers the next.

📖 Example

My yoga class and my sister's piano lesson have overlapping schedules, so we sometimes meet for a quick coffee in between. 🔊 My yoga class and my sister's piano lesson have schedules that overlap, so we sometimes meet for a quick coffee in between.

🔗 Collocations

overlapping interests – shared or common concerns or areas of focus

overlapping responsibilities – duties that are shared or intersect between roles

overlapping period – a time span that coincides with another

🔄 Synonyms

coinciding (adj.) – occurring at the same time or occupying the same space

intersecting (adj.) – crossing or meeting at a point, sharing a common area

concurrent (adj.) – happening or existing at the same time

🚫 Antonyms

separate (adj.) – distinct and not connected or shared

distinct (adj.) – clearly different and not overlapping

non-overlapping (adj.) – having no parts that coincide or share space

🌱 Derivatives

overlap (v./n.) – to cover part of something else; the part or amount that covers or coincides

📖 Cultural Story

Originates from Middle English 'over-' + 'lappen' (to wrap). The concept is widely used to describe intersecting ideas in academic research or project management areas.