1A cover or protective covering placed over something—such as a book jacket, furniture cover, or phone case—to protect it or improve its appearance.
新しく買った本にカバーをかけた。
I put a cover on the book I just bought.
このソファにはカバーが付いている。
This sofa comes with a cover.
スマホのカバーを新しいデザインに変えた。
I changed my phone cover to a new design.
雨の日は自転車にカバーをかけておく。
On rainy days, I keep a cover on my bicycle.
2A rendition of an existing song performed or recorded by a different artist; to cover a song.
あの歌手は昔のヒット曲をカバーして人気を集めた。
That singer gained popularity by covering an old hit song.
好きなバンドがこの曲をカバーしている。
My favorite band has covered this song.
カバーバージョンの方が原曲より好きだ。
I like the cover version better than the original.
3The scope of something covered—such as media coverage of an event, or the scope of protection provided by insurance.
このニュースは各局が大きくカバーした。
This news was given extensive coverage by every network.
海外旅行保険は盗難もカバーしている。
The overseas travel insurance also covers theft.
4To make up for a shortfall, loss, or weakness with something else; also, to take over someone's work or duties on their behalf.
彼のミスを同僚がカバーしてくれた。
A coworker covered for his mistake.
経費の増加を売上でカバーする。
We offset the increase in expenses with sales.
出張中の同僚の分もカバーして働いた。
I also covered the work of my coworker who was away on a business trip.