overwrite

Replace existing data

To overwrite is to write over existing content, replacing what was there.

In computing, overwriting replaces old data with new: The update overwrote my settings.

In physical writing, it means writing on top of other text, making both hard to read.

Figuratively, new experiences can overwrite old memories: Time had overwritten his recollection of the event.

edit

modify

Change partially

changeTo make different
alterMake a modification
amendModify or correct

correct · update · revise · rework · rewrite · redraft · adjust · replace · patch · upgrade

data

replace

Put something else there

eraseRemove recorded marks
deleteRemove or erase
saveProtect from loss

clear · wipe · reset · corrupt · restore · backup · recover · storage · memory · disk

supersede

replace

Put something else there

displaceRemove from proper position
overrideCancel by authority
supplantReplace by force

invalidate · cancel · nullify · void · annul · revoke · rescind · countermand · negate · repeal

computing

file

Stored collection of data

pathRoute for traveling
directoryFile system container
filenameComputer file's identifier

permission · read · save · load · storage · partition · mount · root · hierarchical · system

Categories

text editingcopy, editing, paste, undo, delete
data destructionshredding, shredder, incineration, degaussing, wiping
file operationsopen, save, close, copy, delete
VHSVHS, VHS tape, videotape, VCR, rewind
disk operationsread, format, copy, delete, erase
disk managementformatting, partitioning, disk utility, disk management, file systems

Opposites

data modification action

overwriteappend

Add at the end

preserve · add to · retain · keep · extend

data preservation

overwritepreserve

Protect from loss

protect · safeguard · backup · retain · restore

Family

overwritten, overwriting, overwrites

Familiarity: Top 100,000
Profile: Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Everyday, not technical · Rated G