overlain

Definition of overlainnext
past participle of overlie
1
as in overlapped
to lie over parts of one another the puzzle pieces overlay one another in complete disarray on the floor

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for overlain
Verb
  • Some specific malware and IP addresses, including the one from Vladivostok, overlapped with infrastructure previously used by North Korean actors.
    Jessica Klein, PC Magazine, 28 Mar. 2026
  • At a certain point, our careers overlapped.
    Rem Koolhaas, Artforum, 26 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The formula is richer than a typical lotion thanks to shea butter, but it’s designed to absorb gradually overnight rather than leaving skin feeling coated.
    Hana Hong, Glamour, 25 Mar. 2026
  • The shrimp were tender with a little char, coated in a garlic chili glaze that added a mild kick without being overwhelming.
    Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 24 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • These windows will be covered with translucent film of different Idaho mountain ranges, giving those inside privacy while allowing natural light to flow through into the lounge, which can hold up to 500 people.
    Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 28 Mar. 2026
  • Almaraz’s role was never formally defined, but he was believed by top officials to bring good luck, and all of his travel expenses were covered.
    Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 27 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • During the Cold War, these tensions were overlaid by competing alignments.
    Rabia Akhtar, The Conversation, 20 Mar. 2026
  • Sometimes, images are blurred and overlaid as densely as the chaos of musical fragments and creaking sonic whatsits in Joseph Field Eccles and Nick Smyth’s own sound design.
    Guy Lodge, Variety, 20 Mar. 2026
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.

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Cite this Entry

“Overlain.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overlain. Accessed 1 Apr. 2026.

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