1. A solid preparation that can be spread when heated and that becomes adhesive at the temperature of the body; used to keep the edges of a wound in apposition, to protect raw surfaces, and, when medicated, to redden or blister the skin, as in mustard p., or to apply drugs to the surface to obtain their systemic effects. 2. In dentistry, colloquialism for plas′ter of Paris. [L. emplastrum; G. emplastron, p. or mold]
- p. of Paris exsiccated calcium sulfate from which the water of crystallization has been expelled by heat, but which, when mixed with water, will form a paste which subsequently sets.
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plas·ter 'plas-tər n a medicated or protective dressing that consists of a film (as of cloth or plastic) spread with a usu. medicated substance <adhesive \plaster>
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n.
adhesive tape used in shaped pieces or as a bandage to keep a dressing in place.
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plas·ter (plasґtər) [L. emplastrum] 1. a gypsum material that hardens when mixed with water, used for immobilizing or making impressions of body parts. 2. a pastelike mixture that can be spread over the skin and is adhesive at body temperature, serving purposes such as skin protection and counterirritation.Medical dictionary. 2011.