overhaul

verb

over·​haul ˌō-vər-ˈhȯl How to pronounce overhaul (audio)
overhauled; overhauling; overhauls
Synonyms of overhaulnext

transitive verb

1
a
: to examine thoroughly
Our systems of education are being constantly overhauledSaturday Rev.
b(1)
: repair
The mechanic overhauled the engine.
(2)
: to renovate, remake, revise, or renew thoroughly
The town librarians are overhauling the summer reading program.
2
: to haul or drag over
3
: overtake
The most imposing U.S. swimmer was overhauled by a 17-year-old Australian in the butterfly race.
overhaul noun

Examples of overhaul in a Sentence

The mechanic overhauled the car's engine. They had to overhaul their original plans. Lawmakers are overhauling the welfare program.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On June 3, the state Legislature approved a state constitutional amendment to permit New York to redraw its congressional map and overhaul a dysfunctional redistricting process. Jeffrey M. Wice, New York Daily News, 16 June 2026 The card was recently overhauled and now offers emergency evacuation and transportation coverage, as well — among other additions and a 100,000-point welcome bonus (earned after spending $5,000 within the first three months). Jason Stauffer, CNBC, 16 June 2026 Experts say the best approach is to add more flavanol-rich foods to an already healthy diet, rather than overhaul eating habits. Stephanie Anderson Witmer, Health, 16 June 2026 Target has been concentrating on overhauling its fashions. CBS News, 15 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for overhaul

Word History

First Known Use

1705, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of overhaul was in 1705

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Cite this Entry

“Overhaul.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overhaul. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

overhaul

verb
over·​haul ˌō-vər-ˈhȯl How to pronounce overhaul (audio)
1
: to make a thorough examination of and make necessary repairs and adjustments on
overhaul an engine
2
overhaul noun

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