Saucer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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saucer
[ˈsɔːsər ]
Definition
flying object
A saucer is a small, shallow dish used for holding a cup. It is typically round in shape with a flat bottom and a slight lip around the edge. The term 'saucer' is also commonly used to describe a flying object in the shape of a disc.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| saucer |
A small, shallow dish commonly used to hold cups, especially teacups, to catch any spills or droplets.
|
| dish |
A general term for any kind of container that's used to hold food, also refers to a prepared food item.
|
| plate |
A flat, typically round dish from which food is eaten or served.
|
| flying saucer |
A term used to describe a type of unidentified flying object (UFO) that is typically disk-shaped.
|
Examples of usage
- The waitress placed the saucer next to the teacup.
- The UFO was described as a silver saucer flying through the sky.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, a saucer is considered essential for table etiquette, especially during tea ceremonies.
- In the Victorian era, saucers became a fashionable item, often ornately designed to showcase wealth and style.
- Some cultures use saucers during special ceremonies, symbolizing hospitality and care for guests.
Pop Culture
- In science fiction, 'flying saucers' refer to UFOs, sparking imaginations and conspiracy theories worldwide.
- The term has been featured in movies, cartoons, and books, often depicting aliens and extraterrestrial life.
- Popular music has used 'saucer' in lyrics, adding a quirky twist to songs and highlighting its playful sound.
Everyday Use
- Saucers are commonly found in homes, providing a practical solution to avoid coffee spills on tables.
- They can also serve as small snack dishes for accompanying appetizers or desserts.
- In art and crafting, saucers are often repurposed for DIY projects like bird feeders or decorative displays.
History
- Saucers date back to ancient China, where they served as vessels during tea rituals, showing the importance of tea in culture.
- In the 17th century, European ceramics started producing saucers that matched the design of cups for aesthetic harmony.
- The introduction of porcelain from China shaped the design and popularity of saucers in Western households.
Origin of 'saucer'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'saucer' comes from the Old French word 'saucier,' which originally meant 'a shallow dish for serving sauce.'
- It has roots in Latin with 'salsus,' meaning 'salted,' hinting at its connection to food.
- Over time, the term evolved to generally describe any small dish used for cups.
The word 'saucer' originated in the late 18th century from the Old French word 'sauce', meaning dish or plate. It was first used to refer to the small dish placed under a teacup to catch drips and spills. The term later became associated with UFO sightings in the mid-20th century due to the resemblance of flying saucers to the shape of a saucer.
See also: saucy.