overlying

/ˌoʊvərˈlaɪɪŋ/
adjective
  1. Lying on top of something else; covering or situated above.
    • Geologists studied the overlying rock formations to understand the area's history.
    • The overlying layer of soil protects the bedrock beneath from erosion.
    • The overlying blanket of snow kept the ground warm during the cold night.
Synonyms
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