Extending over and covering part of something else, or having elements in common.
From over- (above) + lap (to fold), originally describing fabric or material that folds over another layer. The metaphorical sense of 'having things in common' developed in the 19th century.
This word captures one of the most fundamental patterns in nature and human organization - from fish scales to roof shingles to academic disciplines, overlapping creates both strength and connection. The mathematical concept of overlapping sets revolutionized how we think about relationships between categories.
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