The phrase "over many" means over a large number or quantity. It can be used to indicate that something is spread out over an extended period, area, or group of people. For example, if someone says they have been working on a project for "many months," it would mean they've been working on the project for several months, not just one month. Similarly, if someone says they are popular among many friends, it means that they are well-liked by a large group of people rather than just one or two individuals.