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

: hide, conceal

Synonyms of paper over

• ignore
• forgive
• overlook
• explain
• pass over
• justify
• brush (aside or off)
• pardon

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

Results papered over the cracks as the performances were patchy. —James Pearce, New York Times, 28 May 2026

As Marvel moved into the world of media through cartoons and live action shows, his voice, likeness and persona became the glue that held Marvel’s story universes together and papered over shortcomings in early, cheap productions with wry humor. —Rob Salkowitz, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026

The deficits were papered over with a series of short-term fixes, including loans and accounting gimmicks. —Dan Walters, Mercury News, 19 May 2026

Social Security faces a looming financing shortfall that no peripheral reform can paper over. —Teresa Ghilarducci, Boston Herald, 18 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for paper over

• carryover
• changeover
• crossover
• cutover
• flashover
• hangover
• holdover
• layover
• leftover
• makeover
• moreover
• passover