silverware
silverware Lexical Profile
silverware Game Scores & Validity
• noun
North American Eating and serving utensils, such as knives, forks, and spoons, regardless of the material from which they are made.
"Could you please help set the table by laying out the napkins and silverware?"
Dishes, containers, ornaments, or tableware that are made of or plated with actual silver.
"The family heirloom includes an exquisite set of antique silverware that is only polished for special holiday dinners."
British Trophies or cups awarded as prizes in sporting competitions.
"The football club is hoping to add some major silverware to their cabinet by the end of this season."
Word Nuance & Usage
In North America, 'silverware' is broadly used to describe everyday eating utensils regardless of their actual material, whereas in British English, the term is typically reserved for items genuinely made of silver or as a colloquialism for sports trophies.
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in English as a compound of 'silver' (from Old English seolfor) and 'ware' (from Old English waru, meaning articles, merchandise, or goods), originally referring strictly to items crafted from silver.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.