verb to lie over or upon; rest on top of
In construction, 'overlie' is used to describe one material or structure that is placed on top of another, such as flooring overlying a subfloor.
In geology, 'overlie' is used to describe one rock or sediment layer that covers another, indicating a sequence of deposition.
In archaeology, 'overlie' is used to describe one artifact or layer of soil that covers another, indicating a chronological order of occupation.
In forensics, 'overlie' is used to describe one trace evidence or substance that is found on top of another, indicating a sequence of events or actions.
In the field of geology, a writer may use the term 'overlie' to describe one rock layer that covers another rock layer.
A psychologist may use the term 'overlie' when discussing how certain emotions or experiences can overlay or cover up underlying issues in therapy sessions.
An archaeologist may use the term 'overlie' to describe how different layers of artifacts or remains can be found in a single excavation site, with newer items overlaying older ones.
In civil engineering, the term 'overlie' may be used to describe how one layer of soil or material covers another layer in the construction of roads, buildings, or other structures.