English Reference

Word

overlapping

Phoneticsover·lap·ping

US/ˈoʊvɝˌɫæpɪŋ/

UK/ˌəʊvəlˈæpɪŋ/

Definitions

01covering part of something

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. covering part of the same area as something else.

adj. positioned such that one element partially covers the edge or surface of another.

“The roof was made of overlapping tiles to keep the rain out.”

“The contractor installed overlapping shingles to ensure a watertight seal against the coastal storms.”

Usage

Usually placed before the noun it describes.

Antonyms

02happening at the same time

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. happening at the same time or sharing similar qualities.

adj. coinciding in time or sharing common characteristics or interests.

“The two festivals have overlapping dates, so you can't attend both.”

“The researchers identified several overlapping interests between the two departments, suggesting a high potential for future collaboration.”

Usage

Often used to describe schedules, responsibilities, or academic fields.

03the state of covering

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Academic

n. the fact or state of things covering each other.

n. the condition or instance of partial coincidence in space, time, or scope.

“The overlapping of the two shadows created a very dark patch on the wall.”

“The constant overlapping of administrative duties led to significant confusion regarding which manager held final budget authority.”

Usage

Often functions as a gerund noun followed by 'of'.

Antonyms

Real-World Examples

“All three combined for the third goal, Morgan Rogers flicking on for João Pedro who held the ball up for the overlapping Palmer to slip his shot cleverly between Bernd Leno’s legs.”
The Guardian 24 Aug 2026
“However, samples such as blood contain cells with overlapping sizes, making it difficult to isolate multiple fractions.”
Phys.org 24 Aug 2026
“It is right next to the main nightclub in the city and overlapping opening hours were proposed.”
The Guardian 17 Aug 2026

Word family

ADJECTIVE

overlapping(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

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English Reference