Meaning of Word
Overseas refers to a location or activity that occurs beyond the borders of one’s own country, typically across the sea or in a foreign country.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- In or to a foreign country, especially one across the sea or ocean.
- Referring to international or foreign relations, business, or travel.
- Beyond the seas – Describing any place outside of the current country or continent.
History and Origin
The term overseas originated from Middle English over the seas, which meant “across the sea” or “beyond the sea.” It was first used to describe journeys, trade, or communication that took place beyond one’s native shores. The term became more widely used as global exploration, travel, and trade increased during the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries.
Detailed Explanation
Overseas generally refers to anything that is located or happens outside of one’s home country, particularly across an ocean or sea. It can describe travel to foreign countries, international business operations, or issues related to foreign relations. The word is often used in contexts where someone is traveling, living, working, or dealing with matters in other countries. For example, a person may work overseas if they are employed in a country other than their own, or a company may have overseas offices in multiple countries. It is a broad term that encompasses global movement, trade, and communication.
Example Sentences
- He’s planning to study overseas next year in Europe.
- The company expanded its operations overseas to increase its global presence.
- They sent a shipment of goods overseas to their international clients.
- I have always wanted to travel overseas and experience new cultures.
- The manager is currently stationed overseas for a project in Japan.
- She met her husband overseas while volunteering in Africa.
- The military deployment included troops being sent overseas for peacekeeping missions.
- I hope to find a job overseas after I graduate.
- The college offers several overseas exchange programs for students.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Abroad – In or to a foreign country, similar to overseas, often used interchangeably.
- International – Involving more than one country; often used in the context of business or travel.
- Foreign – Relating to or from a country outside one’s own.
- Global – Pertaining to the whole world, especially when dealing with business or international relations.
- Expatriate – A person who lives outside their native country, often used in the context of work or long-term residency.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Migration – The movement of people from one country or region to another, often for work or better living conditions.
- Immigration – The act of moving to a foreign country with the intention to live there permanently.
- Tourism – The travel for leisure, typically to foreign countries, involving temporary visits.
- Embassy – A diplomatic mission located in a foreign country, representing one’s home country.
- Visa – An official document permitting entry into a foreign country, typically for travel or work purposes.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Overseas Market – A market located in foreign countries, especially when discussing business opportunities.
- Overseas Shipment – The transportation of goods to or from foreign countries.
- Overseas Travel – Traveling from one’s home country to foreign countries, often for business or leisure.
- Overseas Assignment – A job or duty carried out in a foreign country, often for work purposes.
- Overseas Education – Studying in a country other than one’s own, often through an exchange or degree program.
Antonyms
- Domestic – Relating to one’s own country; opposite of overseas, especially in business or travel contexts.
- Local – Pertaining to a specific area or region, usually within one’s own country.
- National – Pertaining to or characteristic of a particular country.
- Internal – Occurring within one’s own country, often used to refer to domestic affairs.
- Native – Relating to one’s own country or place of origin.