overspread

[ oh-ver-spred ]

verb (used with object)

, o·ver·spread, o·ver·spread·ing.

1. to spread or diffuse over:

   A blush of embarrassment overspread his face.

Word History and Origins

Origin of overspread¹

before 1000; Middle English overspreden, Old English ofersprǣdan. See over-, spread

Example Sentences

To the east, tropical humidity will reign, but desert air will overspread areas to the west.

From Washington Post

“I knew you from the description of poor dear Lucy; but——” She stopped suddenly, and a quick blush overspread her face.

From Literature

The winds will be fierce through the Central Valley, where air funnels easily between the coastal ranges and the Sierra Nevada, but will also overspread the Bay Area, Central Coast and Southern California.

From Seattle Times

Discussion: A tropical air mass will overspread the Mid-Atlantic as a warm front lifts north during the morning hours.

From Washington Post

I went to him and saw that his eyes were sightless; already a thin film was overspreading them.

From Literature

Related Words

• carpeted
• dotted
• overgrown