sticking plaster

American  

noun

1. an adhesive cloth or other material for covering and closing superficial wounds, holding bandages in place, etc.

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sticking plaster British  

noun

1. Usual US term: adhesive tape.  a thin cloth with an adhesive substance on one side, used for covering slight or superficial wounds

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Etymology

Origin of sticking plaster

First recorded in 1645–55

Example Sentences

But according to Jann, this is just a sticking plaster.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

Or is it simply a short-term tactical move, a sticking plaster to get the PM through the next news cycle?

From BBC • Feb. 13, 2026

She said she feared the bridge - which was previously closed for more than a month in 2022 - would not remain open permanently and described repairs as a "sticking plaster".

From BBC • Dec. 22, 2025

“Medical explanations have become the sticking plaster we use to help us manage that disappointment.”

From Salon • May 13, 2025

The crack on the back of the ukulele had been neatly mended with sticking plaster and the round hole in the middle was covered by a piece of wood.

From "The Heart is a Lonely Hunter" by Carson McCullers