Überlaufen Translations, meanings and synonyms

"Überlaufen" is mainly used as verb meaning "overflow", "spill over" or "overcrowded". It is also used as adjective.

Essential properties of "überlaufen"

Its most important properties are:

Properties as Verb

Infinitive: überlaufen
Simple past: lief über
Participle: übergelaufen

See full conjugation of überlaufen

irregularseparableintransitive

Note: These properties are not absolute. A transitive verb can be used intransitively and vice versa depending on context, and many verbs can be used reflexively even though they are not primarily reflexive.

Meanings of "überlaufen" + more translations, synonyms and antonyms

It has the meanings and uses detailed below:

1.) "To spill over (liquid)"

"überlaufen", when used with this meaning, acts as verb.

Definition: "For a liquid to spill over due to excessive content."
Translation(s): overflow, spill over
Synonym(s): überquellen, auslaufen
Antonym(s): eindämmen, zurückhalten
Related word(s): überfließen, überströmen

📝 Some usage examples:

Der Topf ist übergelaufen und hat den Herd verschmutzt.The pot overflowed and soiled the stove.
Wenn du nicht aufpasst, wird das Wasser überlaufen.If you're not careful, the water will overflow.
Die Suppe ist übergelaufen, weil der Topf zu voll war.The soup overflowed because the pot was too full.

2.) "Overcrowded (place/event)"

"überlaufen", when used with this meaning, acts as adjective.

Definition: "A place or event with too many people present."
Translation(s): overcrowded, packed, swarming
Synonym(s): überfüllt, voll
Antonym(s): leer, unbesucht
Related word(s): übervölkert, überlastet

📝 Some usage examples:

Der Strand war im Sommer überlaufen.The beach was overcrowded in summer.
Das Konzert war so überlaufen, dass wir kaum atmen konnten.The concert was so overcrowded that we could barely breathe.
Der Markt ist an Samstagen immer überlaufen.The market is always overcrowded on Saturdays.

3.) "To defect, change sides"

"überlaufen", when used with this meaning, acts as verb.

Definition: "To defect to the enemy side or change allegiance."
Translation(s): defect, switch sides, go over
Synonym(s): überwechseln, übertreten
Antonym(s): bleiben, loyal bleiben
Related word(s): übergehen, wechseln

📝 Some usage examples:

Der Soldat hat zur anderen Armee übergelaufen.The soldier defected to the other army.
Viele Spione überlaufen während des Krieges.Many spies defect during the war.
Er hat die Partei überlaufen und sich der Opposition angeschlossen.He defected from the party and joined the opposition.

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