Sticker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sticker

[หˆstษชkษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

messaging app

A small piece of paper or plastic with an adhesive back, typically printed with a design or picture, that is intended to be stuck to something to decorate or identify it.

Synonyms

decal, label, patch.

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Word Description / Examples
sticker

Commonly used for decorations or for branding purposes. Found on laptops, phone cases, and water bottles.

  • She put a cute cat sticker on her notebook.
  • The event gave out free stickers with their logo.
decal

Often used for larger, more durable decorations, particularly on vehicles, windows, or walls.

  • He applied a floral decal to the rear window of his car.
  • The store had a huge sale sign made out of decals on the front window.
label

Used to identify, categorize, or give information about an item. Common in packaging, jars, and file folders.

  • She added a label to each jar in the pantry.
  • The boxes were labeled with the contents to make moving easier.
patch

Typically used to repair clothing or fabric, or as a decorative element on garments like jackets or bags.

  • He sewed a patch on his jeans to cover the hole.
  • The scout earned a new badge and added it to her patch collection on her sash.

Examples of usage

  • Can you send me a cute sticker in the chat?
  • She decorated her laptop with stickers of her favorite bands.
  • The teacher gave stickers to the students who did well on the test.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Stickers have become a popular form of self-expression, often used on laptops, water bottles, and even car bumpers.
  • In the late 90s, the rise of scrapbooking contributed to the popularity of decorative stickers, transforming them into an art form.

Science and Technology

  • The adhesive on most stickers is made from polymers, which can be modified to create different stickiness levels for various applications.
  • Scientists are developing environmentally friendly stickers made with biodegradable materials to reduce waste.

Art and Creativity

  • Stickers are often used in art therapy to help individuals express feelings and creativity in a playful way.
  • Many artists create their own lines of stickers, blending graphic design and creative messaging.

Psychology

  • Stickers can evoke nostalgia, reminding adults of childhood play and creativity, which can enhance mood.
  • Using stickers as rewards in educational settings can motivate children and reinforce positive behavior.

Origin of 'sticker'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'stick,' meaning to adhere, which reflects how stickers are designed to stick to surfaces.
  • Stickers as we know them started to gain popularity in the 1930s when pressure-sensitive adhesive technology was developed.

The word 'sticker' originated from the Middle English term 'stikeren', which meant 'to pierce' or 'to fasten with a sharp point'. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to an adhesive label or decoration. Stickers have been used for centuries for various purposes, such as marking items, decorating objects, and conveying messages. In the modern digital age, stickers have become popular in messaging apps as a fun and expressive way to communicate.


See also: stick, stickiness, stickler.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,162, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.