Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of adhesive bandage: "court plaster" refers to a specific medical dressing made from silk coated with isinglass (a form of gelatin), historically used to cover minor cuts or superficial wounds.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • In the 19th century, a small cut was often covered with court plaster.
  • The antique medical kit contained several strips of court plaster.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Archaic Usage: The term is primarily used in historical contexts to describe early forms of adhesive bandages. It is rarely used in modern medical practice.
  • The description of the Victorian-era first aid procedure mentioned the use of court plaster.

Variants and Related Words

• Adhesive plaster (n): A modern, general term for a sticky bandage used to cover wounds.
  • For a small scrape, an adhesive plaster is sufficient.
• Isinglass plaster (n): A more technical term referencing the key ingredient (isinglass) of court plaster.

Synonyms

• Sticking plaster: A common British English term for an adhesive bandage.
• Band-Aid: A common American English brand name often used generically for adhesive bandages. (Note: This is a modern proprietary term, whereas "court plaster" is historical.)

Notes on Meaning

• The term "court plaster" is historical and not used in contemporary medicine. Its name is believed to originate from its use by the aristocracy ("court") for cosmetic purposes, such as covering blemishes, as well as for minor wounds.

Noun

1. a plaster composed of isinglass on silk; formerly used to dress superficial wounds