paper over
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
To superficially hide or disguise (a problem or a defect) without addressing it; to provide a veneer of normality or success.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
Runaway lending continues, bad debts mount even higher, and the need for more cash to paper over losses becomes that much more acute.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “paper over” mean?
To superficially hide or disguise (a problem or a defect) without addressing it; to provide a veneer of normality or success.
Is “paper over” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.