The spelling of "plaster down" may seem confusing at first glance, but it follows certain phonetic rules. "Plaster" is spelled with a long "a" sound /ˈplæstər/ and means a material used for coating walls. "Down" is pronounced with a short "o" sound and means in a low or lying position /daʊn/. Together, the phrase "plaster down" could refer to the act of applying plaster to a surface or laying something flat using plaster. Phonetic transcription can help in understanding the pronunciation of words and their spelling.
Plaster down is a phrase that typically refers to the act of using plaster or a similar substance to secure something firmly or make it adhere tightly. It can have several meanings depending on the context in which it is used.
In a literal sense, plaster down may involve using a plaster or adhesive substance to affix an object to a surface. For example, plastering down a loose tile or wall panel involves applying plaster or another mortar-based mixture to secure it firmly in place.
Figuratively, plaster down can refer to the act of fixing or suppressing something firmly or forcefully. It can describe the action of silencing dissent or disregarding objections by applying an overwhelming force or influence. For instance, one might say that a government is plastering down the voices of opposing political parties or dissenting citizens to maintain its control or power.
Additionally, plaster down can be used to describe the appearance of a person's hair or a hairstyle. It refers to the act of smoothing down one's hair firmly against the scalp using a styling product like gel or hairspray. This technique creates a sleek and neat look.
Overall, the term plaster down denotes the act of securing, fixing, suppressing, or styling something firmly and tightly, either literally or figuratively.
The term plaster down does not have its own distinct etymology, as it is a combination of two separate words: plaster and down. Here are the etymologies for each word:
1. Plaster: The word plaster comes from the Old English word plæster, which ultimately derives from the Latin word emplastrum. Emplastrum referred to a medicinal substance, specifically a plaster applied to the skin for healing purposes. The Latin word itself came from the Greek word emblastron, meaning a plaster or salve.
2. Down: The word down has various origins depending on its usage, but in the context of plaster down, it likely refers to the action of physically pressing or smoothing something flat. The verb down is related to the Old Norse word dúnn, meaning feather or down.