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

See Examples For:

sticking plaster

While there is hope that Rutte's tactics will pay off again in Ankara -- among some there is a sense that it's just a sticking plaster solution.

From Barron's ● Jul. 6, 2026

Much of the sector "needs not just a sticking plaster but urgent corrective action", the report said.

From BBC ● Apr. 15, 2026

It has been closed previously for works, which Mr Bradley describes as a "sticking plaster job".

From BBC ● Oct. 27, 2025

"This is really only a sticking plaster when what's required is major surgery," he told the BBC.

From BBC ● Jul. 1, 2025

They did try hard to avoid going into his study when they were bleeding and needed a sticking plaster to put over the cut, because they knew Charles hated the sight of blood.

From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman