What does overbridge mean?
An overbridge is a bridge built so that one route passes above another, most often carrying a road or railway over a busy road, another railway, or a pedestrian route. It allows the two flows of traffic to continue without meeting at ground level, avoiding congestion and the need for traffic lights or level crossings. The term is especially common in British, Australian, New Zealand, and Indian English, while “overpass” is often preferred in American usage. “Overbridge” can describe a broad structure, including a pedestrian bridge over a railway, although some speakers use “flyover” for that narrower application. The word is straightforward and useful when the type of bridge matters, since it emphasizes the relationship between the route carried above and the route or obstacle below.
nounA bridge that carries a road, railway, or walkway over another road, railway, or obstacle. The term is especially common in British and Indian English.
- A bridge carrying a road, railway, or walkway over another route or physical obstacle.
"The new overbridge allows traffic to cross the railway without interfering with trains."
"Passengers use the overbridge to reach the opposite platform."
"A concrete overbridge spans the busy motorway."
The regular plural is “overbridges.”
"Several overbridges connect different parts of the station."
From above, an overbridge lets one road, railway, or stream of traffic pass over another without either having to give way.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does overbridge come from?
“Overbridge” is formed in English by combining the preposition “over” with “bridge.” The compound was used from the early 19th century for a bridge constructed across another railway or road. Its meaning developed alongside the expansion of railways and engineered transport networks, particularly in Britain and its former colonies.
How overbridge is actually used
The word is formal and is particularly common in British, Australian, New Zealand, and Indian English. In American English, “overpass” is often the more usual term.
Easily confused with overbridge
An overbridge is a specific structure carrying one route over another, whereas an overpass can also refer broadly to the elevated portion of a road built to pass over another route.