Synonyms of overlie

overlie

verb

ˌō-vər-ˈlī 

1

as in to overlap

to lie over parts of one another

the puzzle pieces overlay one another in complete disarray on the floor

Synonyms & Similar Words

• overlap
• overspread
• overlay
• lap
• shingle

2

as in to coat

to form a layer over

there will be freezing rain tonight, so we can expect to find a thick layer of ice overlying the car windshield in the morning

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of overlie

The results are somewhat ambiguous as to how much ice may lurk unseen beneath layers of overlying ice-sparse material. — K. R. Callaway, Scientific American, 18 Mar. 2026

But first, in order to access the SMAS, surgeons have to peel back the overlying skin. — Jolene Edgar, Allure, 16 Mar. 2026

As Taylor Glacier slides downstream, the overlying ice mass compresses the subglacial channels, building up tremendous pressure. — Simone Valesini, Wired News, 24 Feb. 2026

These pulses, the team says, are closely tied to overlying tectonic plates and play a key role in the slow rifting of the African continent. — Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 2 July 2025