Paint over
phrasal verb
To put new paint on top of old paint.
He decided to paint over the old mural on the wall.
Often appears as...
- paint over an old wall
- paint over scratches
phrasal verb
To hide or disguise something by using paint.
They tried to paint over the graffiti but you could still see it.
Often appears as...
- paint over the truth
- paint over graffiti
Usage tips
Disapproving
phrasal verb
To put new paint on top of old paint.
He decided to paint over the old mural on the wall.
Often appears as...
- paint over an old wall
- paint over scratches
phrasal verb
To hide or disguise something by using paint.
They tried to paint over the graffiti but you could still see it.
Often appears as...
- paint over the truth
- paint over graffiti
Usage tips
Disapproving
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Renovation Context
Used when discussing updating or changing the appearance of a space.
They planned to paint over the bedroom walls to refresh the look.
Pro Tip 2/3Quick Fix
Implies an easy and fast solution to improve or hide wear and tear.
Instead of buying a new bike, I'll just paint over the scratches.
Pro Tip 3/3Implied Impermanence
The new paint might not last forever or may reveal the old layer over time.
When I painted over the stain, I knew it might show through again.
Pro Tip 1/3Renovation Context
Used when discussing updating or changing the appearance of a space.
They planned to paint over the bedroom walls to refresh the look.
Pro Tip 2/3Quick Fix
Implies an easy and fast solution to improve or hide wear and tear.
Instead of buying a new bike, I'll just paint over the scratches.
Pro Tip 3/3Implied Impermanence
The new paint might not last forever or may reveal the old layer over time.
When I painted over the stain, I knew it might show through again.
Pro Tip 1/3Renovation Context
Used when discussing updating or changing the appearance of a space.
They planned to paint over the bedroom walls to refresh the look.
Pro Tip 2/3Quick Fix
Implies an easy and fast solution to improve or hide wear and tear.
Instead of buying a new bike, I'll just paint over the scratches.
Pro Tip 3/3Implied Impermanence
The new paint might not last forever or may reveal the old layer over time.
When I painted over the stain, I knew it might show through again.
Never forget "Paint over"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension