paper over

verb

papered over; papering over; papers over

transitive verb

1
: to gloss over, explain away, or patch up (differences, disparities, etc.) especially in order to maintain a semblance of unity or agreement
2

Examples of paper over in a Sentence

the differences between the two factions are too great to be papered over in the name of party unity the company tried to paper over its red ink, issuing assurances that it was still financially sound
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
In a 1988 promotional ad for WXYZ-TV’s weathercasters, Jerry Hodak threw a crumpled piece of paper over his shoulder, which Rob Kress caught in a wastebasket without even looking away from his desk. Julie Hinds, Detroit Free Press, 19 Oct. 2024 Alam skillfully demonstrates how the notion of entitlement papers over the gap between the fantasy of the American dream and the reality of American life. Tope Folarin, The Atlantic, 12 Sep. 2024 Officials paper over the gaps with meetings and pronouncements. Philip Zelikow, Foreign Affairs, 12 Dec. 2023 Jimmy Kimmel papers over silences, or throws to Guillermo if need be. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 3 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for paper over 

Word History

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of paper over was in 1910

Dictionary Entries Near paper over

Cite this Entry

“Paper over.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paper%20over. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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