plaster over
Definition
Verb: - To cover a surface by applying a thick, often rough, layer of a paste-like substance (plaster) to conceal or smooth it.
Usage
The verb "plaster over" describes the action of covering something, typically a wall, crack, or irregular surface, with a thick coat of plaster. It implies a deliberate act to hide or repair.
Examples
Advanced Usage
- Figurative Use: While the primary meaning is literal, it can be used metaphorically to describe attempting to hastily conceal a problem or flaw without properly addressing the root cause.
- The government's new policy was just an attempt to plaster over the deep economic issues.
Variants and Related Words
- Plaster (verb): To apply plaster. (e.g., )
- Plastering (noun): The act or trade of applying plaster. (e.g., )
Synonyms
- Cover over
- Daub
- Coat thickly
Phrasal Verbs
- Plaster over is itself a phrasal verb. Its meaning is distinct from the simple verb "plaster," emphasizing the act of covering something to hide it.
Related Idioms
- Paper over the cracks: This idiom has a very similar figurative meaning to "plaster over," meaning to hide problems temporarily. (e.g., )
Verb
-
apply a heavy coat to