Synonyms of overlay

overlay

verb

ˌō-vər-ˈlā 

1

as in to coat

to form a layer over

you should apply a coat of primer first, and then overlay it with two coats of paint

Synonyms & Similar Words

• coat
• cover
• sheet
• blanket
• carpet
• overlie
• wrap
• overspread
• envelop
• veil
• curtain
• circle
• encircle
• enclose
• mantle
• cloak
• shroud
• shawl
• swathe
• enshroud
• encompass
• clothe
• enrobe
• enswathe
• enwrap

2

as in to overlap

to lie over parts of one another

cedar shingles overlaying one another on the roof

Synonyms & Similar Words

• overlap
• overlie
• overspread
• lap
• shingle

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of overlay

Another iteration with a white upper and midsole features blue gradient overlays and matching Air Max units, while the third opts for all-black. — Ian Servantes, Footwear News, 24 Aug. 2026

However, some lenders may set higher credit score requirements, called lender overlays, which can affect eligibility. — Deane Biermeier, USA Today, 22 Aug. 2026

Violet helleborines are incredibly picky orchids, requiring a mature beech forest growing on a clay soil overlaid on chalk. — Literary Hub, 20 Aug. 2026

This is overlaid with twee elements that might be part of the mid ’00 nostalgia in the air. — Vogue, 14 Aug. 2026