Pronunciation: [wˈɛl ˈə͡ʊvə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "well over" is fairly straightforward. "Well" is spelled with a W, E, double L, and pronounced /wɛl/. "Over" is spelled with an O, V, E, and R, and pronounced /ˈoʊ.vər/. Together, "well over" is used to indicate a large quantity, amount or extent that exceeds the expected limit. For example, "The temperature was well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit." The pronunciation of the phrase is /wɛl ˈoʊ.vər/.
The phrase "well over" is an idiomatic expression used to convey a significant or substantial amount or number above a particular threshold. It indicates an excess or surplus beyond what is anticipated or expected. The term "well" in this context is an adverb that emphasizes the degree of surpassing.
When used in numerical terms, "well over" implies that the quantity mentioned is notably larger than a given figure. For instance, if someone says, "The temperature reached well over 100 degrees today," it suggests that the temperature significantly exceeded the 100-degree mark, potentially reaching 110 degrees or even higher.
Similarly, "well over" can be employed in describing timeframes, distances, or age. For example, if someone says, "The meeting lasted well over two hours," it implies the meeting extended beyond two hours considerably, possibly reaching two and a half or even three hours.
Overall, "well over" serves as an intensifier to emphasize the extent to which something exceeds a particular limit. It adds a sense of magnitude and highlights the considerable surplus or surpassing of an expected amount or measurement.
The phrase "well over" is a combination of two separate words that have their own individual etymologies.
1. "Well": The word "well" comes from the Old English word "wella", which means a spring of water or a water source. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "wallôn", meaning to cause to boil or bubble. Over time, "well" also came to refer to a deep hole or a vertical shaft leading to water underground. In terms of its usage in the phrase "well over", "well" serves as an adverb meaning "very" or "to a great extent". This sense of "well" evolved gradually, and by the 16th century, it was being used to strengthen the meaning of adjectives.
2. "Over": The word "over" has a long history, with roots in several languages.
