Meaning & Definition of word "Plate"

Plate

/pleɪt/

noun:

  • 1. A flat dish or container typically made of ceramic or glass, used for serving or eating food.
    • Example: She set the table with a large plate for the main course.
  • 2. A thin flat piece of material used in various applications, such as printing or manufacturing.
    • Example: The printer used a metal plate to transfer the ink onto the paper.
  • 3. A section of the Earth's crust that moves over the molten layer beneath it.
    • Example: The earthquake occurred due to the shifting of tectonic plates.
  • 4. A flat, typically rectangular or circular piece of something, often used as a base or support.
    • Example: The artist worked on a ceramic plate to create her latest design.

verb:

  • 1. To put food on a plate for serving.
    • Example: She plated the food beautifully before serving it to the guests.
  • 2. To cover or coat with a thin layer of metal or other material.
    • Example: The jeweler plated the ring in gold to give it a luxurious finish.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old French 'plaque', from Latin 'platta', feminine of 'plattus' flat.

Common Phrases and Expressions

plate tectonics:

The theory explaining the movement of the Earth's plates.

to plate something:

To cover a surface with a layer of material.

on a silver plate:

In a very easy or convenient manner.

Related Words

dish:

A shallow container for holding food.

platter:

A large plate or dish for serving food.

panel:

A flat piece of material used in construction or decoration.

disc:

A flat circular object.

Slang Meanings of plate

Meaning: To rob or steal (plate used in theft context).

Example Sentence: He got busted for plating cars.

Meaning: To fail or underperform, often used in sports.

Example Sentence: He really plated during the game, not scoring any points.