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superimpose

verb

/ˌsuːp(ə)rɪmˈpəʊz/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of superimpose

To place one thing on top of another, typically in such a way that both are visible but one is dominant.
"The editor will superimpose the subtitles onto the video for better readability."

Detailed meaning of superimpose

This can be done physically by laying one object on top of another, or it can be done graphically by layering one image or design on top of another. In the field of image processing and computer graphics, superimposing is a technique to combine multiple images, videos, or graphics into a single composite image. The images being superimposed can be adjusted for transparency, rotation, and size to create the desired effect. Superimposing can also be used in various fields such as cartography, architecture, and graphic design. In cartography, for example, superimposing a map on a satellite image to show the location of roads, buildings, and other features. Superimposing can also be used in music, where one sound or musical line is added over another. The term 'superimpose' can also refer to the resulting image or composition created by the process of superimposing.

Example sentences containing superimpose

1. The director decided to superimpose the flashback scenes over the protagonist's monologue.
2. The graphic designer used Photoshop to superimpose text onto the image.
3. To create the effect, they had to superimpose multiple layers of animation.
4. The scientist used a microscope to superimpose images for a detailed comparison.
5. In film editing, it's common to superimpose CGI effects onto live-action scenes.
6. The artist wanted to superimpose vibrant colors to enhance the painting's impact.

History and etymology of superimpose

The verb 'superimpose' finds its etymological roots in Latin and Middle French. The prefix 'super-' comes from Latin, meaning 'above' or 'over.' The Latin word 'imponere' means 'to place upon' or 'to impose.' When combined, 'superimpose' encapsulates the act of placing one thing above or over another. This etymology reflects the essence of the word's definition, where one element is positioned atop another, allowing both to remain visible while often emphasizing the dominance or priority of one, echoing the linguistic journey from Latin and Middle French to its modern usage.

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Further usage examples of superimpose

1. The architect planned to superimpose a modern structure on the historical building.
2. To illustrate the concept, the teacher would superimpose diagrams on the whiteboard.
3. The photographer aimed to superimpose shadows for a dramatic effect.
4. Virtual reality technology can superimpose digital elements onto the real world.
5. During the presentation, they would superimpose data graphs to emphasize points.
6. The artist will superimpose two images to create a unique composition.
7. Please superimpose the logo onto the background for the presentation.
8. You need to carefully superimpose the layers in the graphic design software.
9. The director decided to superimpose the flashback scene onto the main action.
10. I will superimpose the text over the image to make it more visually appealing.
11. The photographer will superimpose the subjects onto a different background in post-production.
12. Can you superimpose the map onto the satellite image?
13. The designer plans to superimpose patterns to create an intricate design.
14. Please superimpose the logo at the bottom right corner of the document.
15. The app allows you to superimpose virtual objects onto the real world using augmented reality.
16. We need to superimpose the graph onto the chart to compare the data.
17. The graphic designer will superimpose the text in a bold font to make it stand out.
18. The filmmaker wants to superimpose the protagonist's thoughts as text on the screen.
19. Can you superimpose the watermark onto the image to protect it from unauthorized use?
20. The software enables users to superimpose digital effects onto their photos.
21. The artist will superimpose the image of a bird onto the landscape painting.
22. We can superimpose the logo onto the product packaging to enhance brand recognition.
23. The graphic designer will superimpose a grid onto the image to aid in alignment.
24. Please superimpose the company's slogan onto the promotional banner.