Definition

1. Noun:
   • A wide, strong, silver-colored adhesive tape: Duct tape is a type of very strong, fabric-backed tape with a pressure-sensitive adhesive. It is typically silver-gray in color and is known for its durability and versatility in repairs and temporary fixes.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • We used duct tape to temporarily fix the broken handle.
  • Duct tape is essential in any emergency kit.
  • The package was secured with several strips of duct tape.

Advanced Usage

• "to duct-tape" (verb, informal): To fasten or repair something using duct tape.
  • He had to duct-tape his glasses together after they broke.
• Cultural Reference: The phrase "duct tape holds the world together" is a common humorous saying emphasizing the tape's perceived usefulness for almost any quick repair.

Variants and Related Words

• Gaffer tape: A similar strong, cloth-backed tape, but it is matte black and designed to be removed cleanly, often used in theater and film.
• Packaging tape: A clear or brown plastic tape primarily used for sealing boxes.
• Adhesive tape: A general term for any tape with a sticky coating.

Synonyms

• Silver tape: A common informal name referring to its color.
• Duck tape: An alternate name stemming from its original water-resistant qualities (like a duck's back) and the brand name "Duck Tape".

Related Phrases

• "Like duct tape": Used to describe something or someone that is very versatile or can fix many problems.
  • In a crisis, she's like duct tape—she can handle anything.

Related Idioms

• "To be in a duct-tape situation": To be in a circumstance that requires a quick, makeshift, and temporary solution.
  • The tent pole snapped, so we were in a real duct-tape situation for the rest of the camping trip.

Noun

1. a wide silvery adhesive tape intended to seal joints in sheet metal duct work but having many other uses
   • duct tape holds the world together