overall

American  

[oh-ver-awl, oh-ver-awl] / ˈoʊ vərˈɔl, ˈoʊ vərˌɔl /

adverb

1. from one extreme limit of a thing to the other.

   the overall length of the bridge.

2. covering or including everything.

   an overall impression;

   to view something overall.

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noun

1. (used with a plural verb) overalls,

   1. loose, sturdy trousers, usually with a bib or biblike piece to which shoulder straps are attached, originally worn over other trousers to protect them, as by factory workers or farmers.

   2. long waterproof leggings.

2. British. a smock or loose-fitting housedress.

overall British  

adjective

1. from one end to the other

2. including or covering everything

   the overall cost

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adverb

1. in general; on the whole

noun

1. a protective work garment usually worn over ordinary clothes

2. (plural) hard-wearing work trousers with a bib and shoulder straps or jacket attached

Etymology

Origin of overall

First recorded before 1000; Middle English overal (adverb), Old English ofer eall; over ( def. ), all ( def. )

Example Sentences

If those wealthy Americans cut back on their spending, it would hit the overall economy, because over 60% of total monthly spending comes from households with income over $170,000, she said.

From MarketWatch

Despite restrictions on foreign students that include a full or partial travel ban on 39 nations and increased vetting, the overall UC international student enrollment remained relatively stable.

From Los Angeles Times

When this happens, overall rebuilding efforts can be slowed as lots sit empty and the positive impacts of mass rebuilding — people coming back to neighborhoods, stores reopening — are diminished.

From Los Angeles Times

“I didn’t necessarily feel sick, but I felt extremely low energy and unwell overall,” Palmer added.

From Salon

Next, see how the fund has performed both in down markets and overall.

From Barron's

Related Words

• comprehensive
• global
• long-term