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

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

From Barron's • Jan. 10, 2026

She brought the product over during one of their last visits — a Band-Aid solution that she devised because her client was having trouble bathing herself.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 25, 2025

Roughly the size and color of a Band-Aid, the amusement floats on a shallow, muddy puddle of sauce and is topped with a sprig of greenery.

From "Me Talk Pretty One Day" by David Sedaris

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