Overhead Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉ๏ธ
overhead
[หoสvษrhษd ]
Definitions
business
Expenses incurred in the normal course of business that are not directly attributed to a specific product or service. Overhead costs include rent, utilities, and administrative expenses.
Synonyms
expenses, indirect costs, operating costs.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| overhead |
Often repeated as 'overhead' to place emphasis or clarify in conversation.
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| expenses |
A general term for any money spent by a person or organization. It can be used in both personal and business contexts.
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| operating costs |
Used to refer to the ongoing expenses required for running a business, including both fixed and variable costs. Important in analyzing business performance.
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| indirect costs |
Primarily used in accounting and financial contexts to describe costs that are not attributed to a specific project or product but are necessary for the business to function.
|
Examples of usage
- The company had to cut overhead costs to improve profitability.
- Overhead expenses were higher this quarter due to increased utility bills.
aviation
The height of an aircraft above the ground or sea level.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| overhead |
Used when something is above you in a general sense, often related to physical objects or costs. In terms of costs, it means the ongoing expenses of operating a business.
|
| altitude |
Commonly used in aviation, geography, and sports to describe the height of an object or point in relation to sea level or ground level.
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| height |
Describes the vertical distance from the base to the top of something, often used for people, buildings, and objects.
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| elevation |
Refers to the height of a geographic location above sea level, often used in geographic and construction contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The pilot adjusted the plane's altitude to maintain a safe overhead clearance.
- The helicopter flew at a low overhead to avoid detection.
general
Situated above someone's head.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| overhead |
Used when referring to something directly above you, commonly used in settings like airports or offices.
|
| above |
Indicates a position higher than another object, often used in written instructions or descriptions.
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| upward |
Describes a direction moving from a lower to a higher point, often used in a context of movement or progress.
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| elevated |
Describes something that is raised or lifted to a higher position, often used in a medical or architectural context.
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Examples of usage
- The overhead light in the room was too bright.
- The overhead storage compartment on the plane was full.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Architecture
- In building design, overhead structures can include beams or ceilings that support the roof and protect inhabitants underneath.
- Overhead space in construction is often designed to improve airflow or accommodate ductwork.
- Many modern homes feature high ceilings to create a sense of openness and allow for more overhead light.
Finance
- In business, overhead refers to ongoing expenses that are not directly linked to producing a product or service.
- Examples of overhead costs include rent, utilities, and salaries of employees not directly involved in production.
- Understanding overhead is crucial for budgeting, as it can significantly affect a companyโs profitability.
Aviation
- In aviation, 'overhead' typically refers to compartments above passenger seats used for storing luggage during flights.
- Overhead bins are designed to maximize cabin space and keep the aisles clear for passenger movement.
- The term 'overhead' can also describe flight patterns that planes take when flying at high altitudes.
Psychology
- Research indicates that when people describe their environment, they often refer to overhead elements to evaluate comfort and safety.
- In psychological studies, an open ceiling can influence feelings of freedom and creativity, while low ceilings can induce a sense of confinement.
- The focus on overhead items during discussions can help address environmental factors affecting mood and behavior.
Origin of 'overhead'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'ofer,' meaning 'over' or 'above,' combined with 'head,' referring to the top.
- The use of 'overhead' in English has been recorded since the 14th century, originally referring to things that are literally above.
- In another sense, 'overhead' refers to costs or expenses in business that are not directly tied to the production of goods.
The word 'overhead' originated in the 15th century in Middle English, derived from 'over' and 'head'. It initially referred to the upper part of the body, then evolved to mean situated above someone's head. The business sense of overhead costs emerged in the early 20th century, while the aviation meaning developed in the mid-20th century.
See also: beheader, head, headache, headband, headbands, header, headgear, headhunter, heading, headland, headline, headman, headmaster, headmistress, headpiece, headquarters, headrest, headscarf, headset, headshot, headsman, headstall, headstrong, headwear, headwind, headwrap, hothead.