Phrase guide

paper over

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To superficially hide or disguise (a problem or a defect) without addressing it; to provide a veneer of normality or success.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: figuratively, transitive

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: cover up, gloss over, whitewash

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

Suggesting the use of wallpaper to cover defects on a wall.

Across languages

Translations

5 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Polish: przykrywać — to superficially hide or disguise (a problem or a defect) without addressing it; to provide a veneer of normality or success
  • Polish: przykryć — to superficially hide or disguise (a problem or a defect) without addressing it; to provide a veneer of normality or success
  • Russian: замять (zamjatʹ) — to superficially hide or disguise (a problem or a defect) without addressing it; to provide a veneer of normality or success
  • Spanish: empapelar — to superficially hide or disguise (a problem or a defect) without addressing it; to provide a veneer of normality or success
  • Spanish: disipar — to superficially hide or disguise (a problem or a defect) without addressing it; to provide a veneer of normality or success