:Distinguish from overhaul. An overall's a type of garment which's usually used as protective clothing when working. Some people call an overall a "pair of overalls" by analogy with "pair of trousers". History The 1989 issue of the Oxford English Dictionary lists: The word "overall" (as garment): First in 1792 as "overalls" or "overall trousers" = "trousers worn outside the normal trousers to protect them" (from which the "bib-and-brace" use). First in 1815 as "overall" = "any outermost coat… (More on Overall)