Überlaufen

Überlaufen is a German word that translates to "overflow" or "run over" in English. It can be used in various contexts, both literal and figurative.

Literally, überlaufen describes a situation where a liquid or substance exceeds its container's capacity and spills out. For example, a cup of coffee might überlaufen if it is filled too full, or a river could überlaufen its banks after heavy rainfall.

Figuratively, überlaufen can refer to a situation where something becomes too much to handle or contain. This could apply to emotions, such as anger or excitement, überlaufen a person. It can also describe an overwhelming number of people or things, such as a city's population überlaufen its infrastructure or a store's shelves überlaufen with merchandise.

In a political or social context, überlaufen can describe a large-scale migration or defection. People might überlaufen from one country to another seeking refuge or better opportunities. Similarly, individuals might überlaufen from one political party to another, indicating a shift in allegiance or dissatisfaction. The term implies a movement of significant numbers, often driven by strong motivations.