overhaul
overhaul Lexical Profile
overhaul Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A thorough examination of machinery or a system, accompanied by necessary repairs, replacements, or structural changes to restore or improve its function.
"The aging commuter rail network requires a complete overhaul to meet modern safety standards."
• verb
To analyze and improve a system, organization, or procedure by making major changes.
"The school board voted to overhaul the science curriculum before the next academic year."
To take apart a piece of machinery or equipment in order to examine it and repair it if necessary.
"The mechanic spent the weekend working to overhaul the vintage car's transmission."
British To overtake someone or something in a race or competition.
"The defending champion managed to overhaul the leader in the final lap of the marathon."
Word Nuance & Usage
Like many English noun-verb pairs, 'overhaul' exhibits initial-stress derivation: the noun is typically pronounced with stress on the first syllable (O-ver-haul), whereas the verb often places primary or secondary stress on the final syllable (o-ver-HAUL).
Word Origin & Etymology
Originated in the early 17th century as a nautical term meaning to release the rope of a tackle to slacken it, later evolving from the practice of pulling rigging apart for inspection into the broader sense of a thorough examination and repair.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.