1. Plural of onlay; a veneer or overlay of material applied to a surface, especially in dentistry or woodworking.
Usage: Common in dental and construction contexts
2. In dentistry, restorations that cover one or more cusps of a tooth but do not cover the entire occlusal surface.
Usage: dental/medical term

Examples

• The dentist recommended onlays instead of full crowns for the damaged molars.
• Wood onlays were applied to the cabinet doors to create an elegant decorative effect.
• These ceramic onlays provide both strength and a natural appearance.
• The craftsman carefully fitted the onlays to match the existing woodwork.
• Onlays are less invasive than full crowns and preserve more of the natural tooth structure.