oversail

verb

transitive verb

: to lay (as bricks or stones) so that one projects beyond another upon which it rests
also : to cover by a roof or arch of such construction

intransitive verb

: to project or jut out beyond the base

Word History

Etymology

over entry 1 + obsolete English sail to project, sally, from Middle French saillir to sally, leap, dance

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near oversail

Cite this Entry

“Oversail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oversail. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!