Meaning & Definition of Overhead in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: In the upper part of a space; above one’s head.

  Example Sentence: The airplane flew overhead.

• Definition: A term used in business and finance referring to ongoing expenses that are not directly tied to producing a product or service.

  Example Sentence: The company's overhead costs increased this quarter.

• Definition: An area above, especially in a building or vehicle.

  Example Sentence: Please stow your luggage in the overhead compartment.

• Definition: Cost that is not directly attributable to any specific project.

  Example Sentence: Reducing overhead can significantly increase profit margins.

• Definition: Above or higher up; in an elevated position.

  Example Sentence: The lights were placed overhead for better visibility.

Etymology

Origin: From Middle English 'overhed', from Old English 'ofer heafod', meaning 'above the head'.

Synonyms

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.

Translations

• Spanish: sobre la cabeza

• French: au-dessus

• German: überkopf

• Russian: над головой

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!