Plateful: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word originates from 'plate,' which comes from Old French 'plate' meaning 'flat dish,' combined with 'ful,' an old way to say 'full' or 'filled.'
• It reflects a standard measure of serving size in dining, often indicating abundance.
• Related terms include 'spoonful' and 'cupful,' following a similar structure to indicate quantity.

Culinary Culture

• In various cultures, a plateful of food can represent hospitality, showing care and generosity to guests.
• In buffet settings, the way a plate is filled can reflect personal preferences – some might pile it on while others take smaller servings.
• The concept of a plateful is often used in restaurant marketing to imply generous portions, enticing customers to dine.

Social Significance

• A plateful can symbolize community during gatherings where people share meals together, bridging social connections.
• Different meals served in a plateful can reflect cultural diversity, showcasing a variety of flavors and ingredients from around the world.
• Food presentation, including how platefuls are arranged, can impact perceptions of taste and enjoyment.

Psychological Aspects

• Psychologically, the perception of a full plate can influence feelings of satisfaction and fullness, impacting eating habits.
• Food variety on a plate can stimulate appetite, making it more appealing and enjoyable to eat.
• Research shows that people often eat more when served a larger plateful, highlighting the influence of portion sizes on consumption.

Literature and Expressions

• The term appears in various literary works to describe abundance and indulgence, often in the context of feasting.
• Idiomatic expressions like 'a plateful of troubles' use the concept metaphorically to describe overwhelming situations.
• In poetry, imagery of a plateful is often used to evoke sensory details, like colors and aromas associated with food.

Ranking #36,928, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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