Meaning of the word "spill over" in English

What does "spill over" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

spill over

US /spɪl ˈoʊ.vər/

UK /spɪl ˈəʊvə/

if a problem or bad situation spills over, it spreads and starts to affect other places or situations

Example:

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The conflict in the region could spill over into neighboring countries.

•

The tension from the meeting began to spill over into the hallway.

Synonym:

spread extend overflow escalate propagate

if a liquid spills over, it flows over the edge of a container because there is too much of it

Example:

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The coffee began to spill over the rim of the cup.

•

Don't fill the glass too much, it will spill over.

Synonym:

overflow run over brim over