What does interlap mean?
Interlap is a rare verb meaning to lap over or overlap, with two objects or surfaces partly covering the same area. It can describe physical features, such as overlapping layers, fabrics, branches, or maps, and it can also be used metaphorically for historical periods, traditions, or ideas whose boundaries partially coincide. The word is transitive when it takes an object: one thing interlap another. It can also be used intransitively, especially in the construction “interlap with,” as when two subjects overlap with one another. Although its literal use conveys one layer folding or extending over another, its figurative use is especially useful for relationships that are interconnected without being identical. In contemporary English, overlap is the more common and neutral term, while interlap has a slightly literary or specialist character that gives the relationship a sense of partial entanglement or interwoven complexity.
verbTo lap over or overlap; to extend across or meet another thing so that they partly cover the same area.
- To lap over, overlap, or partly cover the same area as another thing.
"The translucent layers interlap, creating a shifting pattern of light and shadow."
"The translucent layers interlap, creating a shifting pattern of light and shadow."
"Historians often find that the two traditions interlap rather than remain entirely separate."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of interlap
The word is an English formation combining the Latin-derived prefix inter-, meaning “between” or “among,” with lap, in the sense of folding or laying one surface over another. Its structure closely parallels overlap and evokes edges or layers coming over one another; modern usage is rare and is chiefly literary, technical, or historical.
Related word forms
How interlap is actually used
Rare and chiefly literary, technical, or historical. In general modern usage, overlap is normally preferred.