overhaul

verb

over·​haul ˌō-vər-ˈhȯl How to pronounce overhaul (audio)
overhauled; overhauling; overhauls

transitive verb

1
a
: to examine thoroughly
our systems of education are being constantly overhauledSaturday Rev.
b(1)
: repair
The mechanic overhauled the engine.
(2)
: to renovate, remake, revise, or renew thoroughly
Lawmakers are overhauling the welfare program.
2
: to haul or drag over
3
: overtake
The most imposing U.S. swimmer was overhauled by a 17-year-old Australian in the butterfly race.
overhaul noun

Examples of overhaul in a Sentence

The mechanic overhauled the car's engine. They had to overhaul their original plans. Lawmakers are overhauling the welfare program.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Educators must overhaul outdated models; leaders must champion human-AI collaboration; and technologists must design systems that amplify, rather than isolate, human potential. Wayne Liu, Forbes.com, 29 July 2025 JPMorgan, the largest U.S. bank by assets, recently overhauled the leadership of its research group, which worked on quantum computing and other advanced technologies. Hugh Son, CNBC, 28 July 2025 But Durham also concluded there was no need for wholesale changes at the Justice Department and FBI, which had already overhauled its policies. Sudiksha Kochi, USA Today, 25 July 2025 In a pair of suits reviewed by the Washington Examiner, Unite Here Local 23 is seeking relief for food staff whose employment is ending as the House overhauls its restaurant offerings. David Sivak, The Washington Examiner, 25 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for overhaul

Word History

First Known Use

1705, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of overhaul was in 1705

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Cite this Entry

“Overhaul.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overhaul. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

overhaul

verb
over·​haul ˌō-vər-ˈhȯl How to pronounce overhaul (audio)
1
: to make a thorough examination of and make necessary repairs and adjustments on
overhaul an engine
2
overhaul noun

More from Merriam-Webster on overhaul

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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