Overlaying: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when describing the process of adding a layer or image on top of another layer for decorative or functional purposes.

• The designer is overlaying a texture onto the main background.
• Overlaying text on images can make the content more engaging.

This word is appropriate when you need to completely place something over another thing to hide, protect, or shield it.

• Cover the food with a lid to keep it warm.
• She used a blanket to cover the baby.

Used in technical or specialized contexts, particularly in photography, film, or graphic design, where one image is placed over another, often to create artistic or informative effects.

• The film editor decided to superimpose the credits over the opening scene.
• In the presentation, they superimpose the chart over the map for clearer analysis.

This phrase is suitable when you are physically positioning one item on top of another without necessarily merging them or hiding the bottom layer completely.

• Place the napkin over the spill to soak up the liquid.
• You can place the book over the papers to keep them from flying away.

This phrase is used when you want to describe the action of mixing two elements together so that they become indistinguishable. It is often used in cooking, painting, or other creative fields.

• The colors in the artist's painting blend with each other seamlessly.
• Blend the sauce with the pasta for a richer flavor.