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overcast
/ˈoʊ.vɚ.kæst/
covered with clouds
The sky was overcast all day, so we stayed indoors.
The sky had thick clouds covering it, preventing outdoor activities.
neutral
Covered with clouds; dull and dark due to cloud cover.
The weather forecast predicts an overcast morning.
The forecast indicates a morning with cloudy skies.
She prefers overcast days for photography because the soft light is flattering.
Cloudy conditions provide ideal lighting for portrait photography.
Commonly used to describe weather conditions where the sky is completely or mostly covered by clouds, blocking sunlight.
Collocations
overcast skya sky covered with cloudsovercast daya day with cloudy skiesheavily overcastcompletely covered with thick clouds
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'overcast' as a verb
'Overcast' is primarily an adjective describing weather. The verb form ('to overcast') is rare and means to cover or darken, e.g., 'The clouds overcast the sun.' Focus on the adjective usage for weather descriptions.
Gold Rule
When to use 'overcast' vs. 'cloudy'
Use 'overcast' when the sky is completely or nearly completely covered by clouds, blocking most sunlight. Use 'cloudy' for partial cloud cover where the sun is still visible.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'overcasten' (to cover over), combining 'over-' (prefix meaning 'above' or 'excessively') and 'cast' (from Old Norse 'kasta', meaning 'to throw'). The weather sense emerged in the 16th century.
Usage Notes
While 'overcast' specifically implies complete or near-complete cloud cover, 'cloudy' can describe partial cloudiness. 'Overcast' is often preferred in formal or descriptive contexts.
Word Breakdown
over-
prefix meaning 'excessively' or 'above'
prefixcast
from Old Norse 'kasta', meaning 'to throw' or 'cover'
rootEnglish Dictionary