Definition

1. Noun:

   • A thorough examination and repair: A comprehensive process of checking, repairing, or improving something, often a machine or system, to restore it to good condition.
   • A major renovation or renewal: A significant update or modernization of a system, process, or structure.

2. Verb:

   • To examine thoroughly and repair or improve: To take apart, inspect, and repair a machine or system completely.
   • To overtake or catch up with: (Less common) To pass another vehicle, especially in a race or while sailing.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:

  • The old factory is closed for a complete overhaul.
  • The government announced a major overhaul of the tax code.

• Verb:

  • The mechanic will overhaul the aircraft's engine next week.
  • We need to overhaul our website to make it more user-friendly.
  • The sailboat managed to overhaul its competitor in the final stretch.

Advanced Usage

• "to give something an overhaul": To subject something to a thorough process of repair and improvement.

  • The company gave its brand image a complete overhaul.

• "in need of an overhaul": Describing something that requires extensive repair or modernization.

  • The public transportation system is desperately in need of an overhaul.

Variants and Related Words

• Overhauling (gerund/noun): The act or process of overhauling.
  • The overhauling of the engine took three days.

Synonyms

• Noun: Renovation, reconditioning, refurbishment, revamp, restoration.
• Verb: Repair, recondition, refurbish, revamp, modernize, overtake.

Related Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "Overhaul" is not commonly used in standard phrasal verb constructions. Its meanings are typically contained within the single verb form.)

Related Idioms

• "A top-to-bottom overhaul": An idiom emphasizing a complete and thorough renovation, leaving no part untouched.
  • The new manager initiated a top-to-bottom overhaul of the department's procedures.

Noun

1. the act of improving by renewing and restoring
   • they are pursuing a general program of renovation to the entire property
   • a major overhal of the healthcare system was proposed
2. periodic maintenance on a car or machine
   • it was time for an overhaul on the tractor

Verb

1. make repairs, renovations, revisions or adjustments to
   • You should overhaul your car engine
   • overhaul the health care system
2. travel past
   • The sports car passed all the trucks