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

The long-awaited trophy was a sticking plaster covering up deep cracks.

From BBC ● Jan. 9, 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

Her arm was out of the sling and she had a band of sticking plaster round her wrist.

From "1984" by George Orwell