Meaning & Definition of word "Overhead"
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Overhead
/ˌoʊ.vərˈhɛd/
noun:
- 1. The ongoing administrative costs or expenses of operating a business that are not directly tied to creating a product or service.
- Example: The company needs to reduce its overhead to increase profitability.
- 2. The space or area above the level of one's head.
- Example: There was an old sign hanging overhead in the hallway.
adjective:
- 1. Located above the level of the ground or head.
- Example: The overhead lights illuminated the entire room.
- 2. Relating to costs that are not directly associated with a specific project or product.
- Example: They had to account for overhead expenses when preparing their budget.
adverb:
- 1. In a position or place above.
- Example: The bird flew overhead as we walked through the park.
Etymology
From Middle English 'overhed', from Old English 'ofer heafod', meaning 'above the head'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
overhead costs:
Expenses not directly tied to production, such as rent and utilities.
overhead projector:
A device for projecting images onto a screen, typically using transparency sheets.
overhead wire:
A wire suspended above the ground, used for electrifying trains or trams.
Related Words
over:
A prefix meaning above, and also an adverb indicating a position higher than something else.
head:
The uppermost part of the body or the leading position in a group.
Slang Meanings of overhead
Meaning: To get ahead or do something before someone else.
Example Sentence: He totally overhead me in the meeting.
Meaning: Used in the context of high costs or prices.
Example Sentence: The price of that item is way overhead!