Overloading: meaning, definitions and examples

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overloading

 

[ ˌoʊvərˈloʊdɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

technical usage

Overloading refers to a situation where a system or component is subjected to a load beyond its designed capacity. This term is commonly used in various fields, such as engineering and computer science. In programming, it often pertains to the practice of defining multiple functions or methods with the same name but different parameters. Overloading can lead to confusion if not implemented or understood correctly, but when utilized effectively, it enhances flexibility in coding. In the context of electrical engineering, overloading can cause damage to equipment or systems, requiring careful monitoring and management.

Synonyms

excessive load, overburdening, strain

Examples of usage

  • The circuit experienced overloading, causing a blackout.
  • The programmer implemented method overloading to improve code readability.
  • Overloading the truck beyond its weight limit is hazardous.
  • Electrical systems must be designed to prevent overloading scenarios.

Translations

Translations of the word "overloading" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sobrecarga

🇮🇳 अधिक भार डालना

🇩🇪 Überlastung

🇮🇩 overloading

🇺🇦 перевантаження

🇵🇱 przeciążenie

🇯🇵 オーバーロード

🇫🇷 surcharge

🇪🇸 sobrecarga

🇹🇷 aşırı yükleme

🇰🇷 과부하

🇸🇦 تحميل زائد

🇨🇿 přetížení

🇸🇰 preťaženie

🇨🇳 过载

🇸🇮 preobremenitev

🇮🇸 yfirbelastun

🇰🇿 артық жүктеме

🇬🇪 გაჭარბება

🇦🇿 aşırı yükləmə

🇲🇽 sobrecarga

Etymology

The term 'overload' has origins in the late 19th century, derived from the combination of 'over,' meaning excessively or too much, and 'load,' a term referring to a weight or burden being carried. Originally, 'load' comes from the Old English word 'lād,' which denoted a way, course, or way of carrying a burden. Over time, in technical contexts, 'overloading' began to take on more specialized meanings. In engineering, it first appeared to describe the stress placed on structures and machines beyond what they were intended to handle. In programming, the term was adapted to refer to the ability to create multiple methods with the same name but with varying types or numbers of parameters. This dual use in technical language continues to be important in both engineering and computer science, emphasizing the need for clear specifications and the consequence of misuse.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,463, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.