The Archive

Etymology Journal · S

Slap some duct tape on it

Meaning

This is the ultimate handyman solution for fixing something that is broken, usually in a temporary or ugly way. It is used when you do not want to buy a proper part or call a professional.

Practical, humorous

Used in a sentence

  • The bumper is hanging off again, so just slap some duct tape on it.
  • We do not need a new hose, just slap some duct tape on it and get back to work.
  • If the box is falling apart, slap some duct tape on it before you ship it.

The backstory

Duct tape became common in the mid-20th century, especially after its use in World War II. The phrase captures the quintessential American spirit of DIY repair.

Heard in

Midwest, Rural America

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