overhang
overhang Lexical Profile
overhang Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A projecting part of a structure, cliff, or roof that extends outward over a lower part or space.
"The hikers took shelter beneath a rocky overhang until the afternoon thunderstorm passed."
In economics and finance, an excess accumulation of debt, inventory, or unexercised shares that weighs on market value or future economic growth.
"A large debt overhang prevented the manufacturing firm from borrowing funds for new equipment."
• verb
To hang or extend outward over something below.
"The branches of the ancient willow tree overhang the quiet riverbank."
To loom over as an imminent threat or source of anxiety.
"Concerns about rising inflation continued to overhang the housing market throughout the spring."
Word Nuance & Usage
Like many English noun-verb pairs formed with a prefix, the noun 'overhang' is stressed on the first syllable (OH-ver-hang), whereas the verb is typically stressed on the second syllable (oh-ver-HANG).
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English overhangen, continuing Old English oferhangian ('to hang over or project above'), formed from ofer ('over') and hangian ('to hang'). The noun sense developed in the late 18th century.