court plaster: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
very lowhistorical, archaic
Quick answer
What does “court plaster” mean?
A small adhesive bandage or dressing, originally made of silk or satin, used for minor cuts, often for cosmetic purposes to avoid obvious bandages.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small adhesive bandage or dressing, originally made of silk or satin, used for minor cuts, often for cosmetic purposes to avoid obvious bandages.
Used metaphorically to describe a superficial or cosmetic solution that hides a problem without addressing its root cause.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In modern usage, the term is equally archaic in both varieties. Historically, the product was known by this name in both regions. Contemporary equivalents are 'plaster' (UK) and 'band-aid' or 'adhesive bandage' (US).
Connotations
Carries connotations of antiquated, genteel, or cosmetic medical care.
Frequency
Effectively never used in contemporary speech or writing outside of historical contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “court plaster” in a Sentence
[Agent] applied a court plaster to [Location]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Only in historical texts or discussions of medical history.
Everyday
Not used; would be met with confusion.
Technical
Not used in modern medicine.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “court plaster”
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “court plaster”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “court plaster”
- Using it in modern contexts.
- Interpreting 'court' in the legal sense.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, products under that specific name are not sold. Modern adhesive bandages are the functional equivalent.
No, using it would sound archaic and confusing. Use 'plaster' (UK) or 'band-aid'/'adhesive bandage' (US).
It was associated with the royal court, where a discreet, cosmetic bandage was desirable to maintain a flawless appearance.
No, it is very rare. More common metaphors are 'band-aid solution' (US) or 'sticking plaster solution' (UK).
A small adhesive bandage or dressing, originally made of silk or satin, used for minor cuts, often for cosmetic purposes to avoid obvious bandages.
Court plaster is usually historical, archaic in register.
Court plaster: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkɔːt ˈplɑːstə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkɔːrt ˈplæstər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A mere court plaster on a gaping wound (metaphorical use)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a royal court where appearances matter; a 'court plaster' was a fancy, discreet bandage for minor cuts at court.
Conceptual Metaphor
A BEAUTY TREATMENT IS A MEDICAL PROCEDURE; A SUPERFICIAL FIX IS A COSMETIC COVER-UP.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary reason 'court plaster' is not used in modern English?