Definition of "overlay" []

• To lay or spread over or on. (verb-transitive)
• To cover the surface of with a decorative layer or design: overlay wood with silver. (verb-transitive)
• To embellish superficially: a simple tune that was overlaid with ornate harmonies. (verb-transitive)
• Printing To put an overlay on. (verb-transitive)
• To create (a new area code) having the same boundaries as another: In Maryland, area code 240 was overlaid on top of area code 301. (verb-transitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "They will have the title overlay capability in their production switcher."
• "The Oresteian mythical overlay is the vehicle for that consciousness, one that Aue himself evokes."
• "Gold overlay is a passive metal and will not tarnish."