Medical bandages and protective coverings applied to wounds; can also mean sauces made from oil, vinegar, and seasonings used on salads; or the stuffing used in poultry.
From 'dress' meaning 'to prepare' or 'to clothe.' A dressing 'dresses' or prepares a wound, salad, or bird. The word has been used since the 1500s for medical care and evolved to culinary uses.
One word 'dressing' means three totally different things—medicine for wounds, sauce for salad, and stuffing for turkey—because they all 'dress up' or prepare something to be in better condition!
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