Band-Aid

American  

[band-eyd] / ˈbændˌeɪd /

Trademark.

1. a brand of adhesive bandage with a gauze pad in the center, used to cover minor abrasions and cuts.

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noun

1. (often lowercase) a makeshift, limited, or temporary aid or solution that does not satisfy the basic or long-range need.

   The proposed reform isn't thorough enough to be more than just a band-aid.

adjective

1. (often lowercase) serving as a makeshift, limited, or temporary aid or solution.

   band-aid measures to solve a complex problem.

Band-Aid British  

/ ˈbændˌeɪd /

noun

1. a gauze surgical dressing backed by adhesive tape

2. informal (sometimes not capitals) somethinɡ that provides a temporary solution to a problem

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Etymology

Origin of Band-Aid

1965–70 Band-Aid for defs. 2, 3

Example Sentences

His first success came with jingles for brands like State Farm — “Like a Good Neighbor” is his handiwork — and Band-Aid.

From Los Angeles Times • May 27, 2026

Ripping off the Band-Aid and auditing myself was a massive relief.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 31, 2026

Many sleep experts worry a sleepcation is just a temporary Band-Aid for a broken work-life balance.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 17, 2026

That said, a cap would likely be a temporary Band-Aid for affordability concerns.

From Barron's • Jan. 10, 2026

It’s the used Band-Aid on the next step that makes me ill.

From "The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl" by Stacy McAnulty

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