Plate

Definition

Plate is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a flat, typically circular dish used for serving food, a thin flat sheet of material, or a tectonic structure on Earth. As a verb, it means to cover a surface with a thin layer of material, usually metal.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pleɪt/
• Respelling: PLAYT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pleɪt/
• Respelling: PLAYT

Etymology

The word "plate" originates from the Old French "plate," meaning "flat piece," derived from Medieval Latin "plattus," which means "flat or broad." It entered the English language in the 13th century, initially referring to flat metal sheets.

Derivatives

• Plating (noun, verb)
• Plateau (noun, related)
• Platelet (noun)
• Plated (adjective)
• Overplate (verb)

Synonyms

• Dish
• Sheet
• Layer

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "plate" is used in various contexts such as dining, construction, and geology. For example: "She placed the food on a plate," or "The Earth’s crust is divided into tectonic plates."

Related Terms

• Bowl: A round, deep dish for holding liquids or food.
• Tectonic Plate: A large section of the Earth's crust.
• Plating: A covering layer of metal.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A flat dish for serving food: Refers to a common item used in dining.
  • Example: "The waiter brought a plate of pasta to the table."
• A flat sheet of material: Refers to a thin, flat layer of metal or other substances.
  • Example: "The metal plate was used in the machine's construction."
• A tectonic structure: Refers to the massive sections of the Earth's lithosphere.
  • Example: "The Pacific Plate is one of the largest tectonic plates."

Verb

• To cover with a layer of material: Describes applying a thin coating of metal or other substances.
  • Example: "The jeweler plated the ring with gold."