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overlap

noun/ˌoʊ.vɚˈlæp/

definition

the extent to which two or more things cover the same area or share common features

example

There is a significant overlap in the scientific research conducted by both universities, leading to collaborative projects.

synonyms
intersectionduplicationconvergence
word origin — from Middle English 'overlappen,' meaning 'to lie over, fold over,' from 'over-' + 'lappen' (to fold or to tuck).

overlap, friction, lien, acclaim, composure: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from TOEFL Vocabulary set 8. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

  1. overlap · noun/ˌoʊ.vɚˈlæp/

    the extent to which two or more things cover the same area or share common features

    There is a significant overlap in the scientific research conducted by both universities, leading to collaborative projects.

    Synonyms: intersection, duplication, convergence

    Origin: from Middle English 'overlappen,' meaning 'to lie over, fold over,' from 'over-' + 'lappen' (to fold or to tuck).

  2. friction · noun/ˈfrɪkʃən/

    the resistance that one surface or object encounters when moving over another

    The tires of the car provided enough friction against the wet road to prevent it from skidding.

    Synonyms: resistance, drag, rubbing

    Origin: From Latin 'frictio', meaning 'rubbing', which comes from 'fricare', meaning 'to rub'.

  3. lien · noun/liːən/

    a legal right or interest that a lender has in the borrower's property, granted until the debt obligation is satisfied

    The bank placed a lien on the property after the homeowner defaulted on the mortgage payments.

    Synonyms: claim, encumbrance, charge

    Origin: Middle English 'lien', from Old French 'lien', from Latin 'ligamen' meaning 'bond' or 'tie'.

  4. acclaim · verb/əˈkleɪm/

    to praise enthusiastically and publicly

    The critics acclaimed the new film for its groundbreaking cinematography and powerful performances.

    Synonyms: applaud, commend, praise

    Origin: The word 'acclaim' comes from Middle English 'acclaime', which is derived from the Latin 'acclamare', meaning 'to shout at' or 'to cry out'.

  5. composure · noun/kəmˈpoʊ.ʒɚ/

    the state of being calm and in control of oneself

    Despite the chaos around her, she maintained her composure and calmly addressed the crowd.

    Synonyms: calm, poise, equanimity

    Origin: from Latin 'componere', meaning 'to put together'