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

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

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

From BBC ● Jul. 1, 2025

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

From Salon ● May 13, 2025

Besides the food, he packed a torch, and his penknife, some sticking plaster, a pair of socks and a ball of string.

From "I'm the King of the Castle" by Susan Hill