What does overlap mean?
Overlap describes the situation in which two or more things share some of the same space, time, features, or responsibilities. As a verb, it can refer to one object partly covering another, as with overlapping pieces of paper, or to two activities occurring during part of the same period. It is also widely used to describe shared areas of responsibility or interest, as in “The proposals overlap considerably.” As a noun, overlap refers to the shared area itself: there may be an overlap between two schedules, contracts, or sets of data. The word is useful because it captures partial rather than necessarily complete coincidence. In professional and administrative contexts, it often draws attention to duplication, competition, or the need for coordination, although it can also simply describe a planned connection between two initiatives.
To extend over or partly cover something, or to occur partly at the same time, in the same place, or in the same subject area as something else.
"The two conference sessions overlap between two and three o'clock."
Common with schedules, responsibilities, subjects, places, and physical objects.
An area or period in which two or more things partly cover one another, coincide, or share a feature or responsibility.
"There is a considerable overlap between the two job descriptions."
Often used figuratively for shared responsibilities, topics, markets, or data.
The plural form is used for separate instances of shared coverage, coincidence, or activity.
"The report identifies several overlaps between the two systems."
When two things overlap, they do not simply meet: they occupy some of the same time, space, or subject matter.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does overlap come from?
Overlap was formed in English by combining the prefix over- with the noun lap, originally referring to a fold or covering. The compound developed in the sense of a covering that extends over something else and later acquired the meanings of sharing time, space, or responsibility. Its relatives include several English and Latin-derived words connected with the idea of a lapse or falling, such as lapse and lapsus.
Related word forms
How overlap is actually used
Overlap is neutral in tone and is especially common in formal and professional contexts when describing shared responsibilities, schedules, populations, or features. It can imply a problem when the shared area creates duplication or competition, but it need not be negative.
Easily confused with overlap
Overlap means that two things partly cover or coincide with each other, whereas overlook means to fail to notice something or to have a view over it.