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Definition of ashtray

ashtray

/ˈæʃ.treɪ/
ash · tray
Plural:ashtrays
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ashtray Lexical Profile

ashtray Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A small receptacle designed for the disposal of tobacco ash and cigarette or cigar butts.

Example

"He stubbed out his cigarette in the heavy glass ashtray resting on the patio table."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ashtray

• Nearby Words

ashless
ashore
ashram
ashtray
ashy
asiago
asian elephant

Word Origin & Etymology

Originated in the late 19th century as a straightforward compound of 'ash' and 'tray', popularized alongside the mass production and widespread consumption of cigarettes.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ashtray. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ashtray
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