Cutlery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ด
cutlery
[หkสtlษri ]
Definition
eating utensils
Cutlery refers to the tools used for eating, such as knives, forks, and spoons. It is typically made of metal, plastic, or wood. Cutlery is essential for enjoying meals and is commonly found in households and restaurants.
Synonyms
flatware, silverware, tableware.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cutlery |
General term for tools used for cutting and eating food, such as knives, forks, and spoons. Commonly used in household and restaurant settings.
|
| silverware |
Specifically refers to utensils made of silver or silver-plated metal. Often used in formal dining settings.
|
| flatware |
Primarily refers to eating utensils like knives, forks, and spoons, often emphasizing a formal or polished set used on dining tables.
|
| tableware |
Broad term that includes all items used on a dining table, such as plates, glasses, and utensils, not limited to those for cutting or eating.
|
Examples of usage
- Please set the table with the cutlery before the guests arrive.
- She polished the silver cutlery before placing it in the drawer.
- The restaurant provided high-quality cutlery for its patrons.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Different cultures have unique styles of cutlery; for example, chopsticks in East Asian countries and forks as a staple in Western dining.
- In some cultures, cutlery is considered a part of etiquette; using the right tool for each course is a sign of refinement.
- Certain celebrations or traditions involve ornamental cutlery, such as silverware handed down through generations for special occasions.
Design and Innovation
- Cutlery design varies from functional to artistic; many designers create cutlery as both utensils and art pieces.
- Modern materials like stainless steel, plastic, and bamboo are commonly used, allowing for both durability and environmental consciousness.
- Innovations like ergonomic handles cater to users with disabilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy meals comfortably.
Health and Hygiene
- Proper cutlery use is essential for food hygiene; stainless steel is especially popular because it resists bacteria.
- Many restaurants and kitchens adhere to strict cutlery sanitization protocols to prevent foodborne illnesses.
- Using cutlery helps to control portion sizes, enabling healthier eating habits by encouraging slower, more mindful consumption.
Literature and Popular Culture
- In literature, cutlery can symbolize social class โ the more elaborate the cutlery set, the higher the social status of the characters.
- The act of setting a table with cutlery is often depicted in films as a scene for family gatherings or significant conversations.
- Songs and poems sometimes reference cutlery, using it as a metaphor for precision and care in relationships.
Origin of 'cutlery'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'cutlery' originated from the Old French word 'coutelier', which means 'knife maker'.
- In medieval times, cutlery referred mostly to knives before forks and spoons became popular.
- The use of cutlery became widespread in England during the 18th century, with elaborate designs reflecting social status.
The word 'cutlery' originated from the Old French word 'coutelier', which means knife maker. The use of cutlery dates back to ancient civilizations, where people used various tools for eating. Over time, cutlery evolved into the utensils we use today.
See also: cut, cutaway, cutback, cute, cuticle, cutie, cutlass, cutlet, cutoff, cutout, cutter, cutters, cutthroat, cutting, cuttings, intercut, offcuts, undercut.