Saucers: meaning, definitions and examples

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saucers

[ˈsɔːsərz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

flying objects

Saucers are flying objects typically described as disc-shaped, often associated with UFO sightings. These objects are believed to be of extraterrestrial origin and have been a subject of much debate and speculation.

Synonyms

UFOs, flying discs, flying saucers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
saucers	This word is commonly used to refer to small, shallow dishes meant to hold cups or small items. She arranged the teacups on the matching saucers. The waiter brought the coffee on a tray with tiny saucers.
flying discs	Used to describe objects that are round and flat, thrown for leisure or sports, such as Frisbees. They played catch with flying discs in the park. The dog fetched the flying disc with enthusiasm.
UFOs	An abbreviation for 'Unidentified Flying Objects.' This term is more technical and neutral, used in official reports or serious discussions about aerial phenomena. The Air Force investigated numerous sightings of UFOs. Scientists are still debating the nature of these UFOs.
flying saucers	Often used to describe unidentified flying objects (UFOs) that have a round, saucer-like shape. This term is usually more informal and imaginative. Reports of flying saucers increased during that decade. People claimed to have seen flying saucers hovering over the city.

Examples of usage

There have been numerous reports of saucers hovering in the sky.
Many people claim to have witnessed saucers flying at incredible speeds.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

dishes

Saucers are small, typically round plates used to hold cups or glasses. They are often placed underneath the cup to catch any spills or drips.

Synonyms

plate for cup, tea plate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
saucers	Typically used to refer to the small dishes placed under cups to catch any drips or overflow from the beverage. Often found in tea sets or coffee services. She arranged the tea cups and saucers on the tray. The waiter brought the coffee with matching saucers.
tea plate	Refers to a small, usually round plate used to serve light snacks or appetizers during tea time. Different from a saucer as it's typically used for food rather than catching drips from a cup. She served biscuits on a delicate tea plate. Each guest was given a tea plate with sandwiches and pastries.
plate for cup	An informal way to describe a saucer, emphasizing its purpose. Suitable for casual conversations where precision is less important. Could you grab me a plate for my cup, please? I found a plate for your tea cup in the cupboard.

Word

Description / Examples

saucers

Typically used to refer to the small dishes placed under cups to catch any drips or overflow from the beverage. Often found in tea sets or coffee services.

She arranged the tea cups and saucers on the tray.
The waiter brought the coffee with matching saucers.

tea plate

Refers to a small, usually round plate used to serve light snacks or appetizers during tea time. Different from a saucer as it's typically used for food rather than catching drips from a cup.

She served biscuits on a delicate tea plate.
Each guest was given a tea plate with sandwiches and pastries.

plate for cup

An informal way to describe a saucer, emphasizing its purpose. Suitable for casual conversations where precision is less important.

Could you grab me a plate for my cup, please?
I found a plate for your tea cup in the cupboard.

Examples of usage

She placed the teacup on the saucer.
The saucer prevented the coffee from staining the table.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'saucer' comes from the Old French word 'saucier', which meant 'shallow dish'.
Originally, 'saucier' referred to a sauce dish, evolving over time to denote the flat dishes used with cups.
The shape of a saucer is designed to complement the curve of a teacup, making it both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, having tea served with a saucer signifies hospitality and grace.
In traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, saucers are often used for serving tea bowls, enhancing the presentation.
Some cultures have unique customs regarding the use of saucers, such as elaborate patterns and materials, reflecting artisanal craftsmanship.

Art and Design

Saucers have been decorated by various cultures throughout history, including intricate designs in fine china and porcelain.
Artists often incorporate saucers into their work, using them as canvases for painted designs or as functional art.
The design of saucers varies widely across different regions, from minimalist Scandinavian styles to ornate Victorian patterns.

Science

The design of a saucer can reduce spillage by creating a barrier around the base of the cup, using principles of gravity and surface tension.
Materials used for saucers can affect heat retention, with ceramic maintaining warmth better than glass.
Studies show that using a saucer can lead to better social interactions during meals, as it encourages sharing and passing of cups safely.

Pop Culture

The image of flying saucers in UFO lore has led to humorous connections with the mundane dishes, showcasing a cultural juxtaposition.
Saucers often appear in cartoons and movies, emphasizing tea time as a moment of comedy or warmth.
In the famous 'Looney Tunes' cartoons, characters are often seen nervously hovering around saucers, comically pretending to sip tea.

Translations

Translations of the word "saucers" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pires

🇮🇳 प्याले

🇩🇪 Untertassen

🇮🇩 piring kecil

🇺🇦 блюдця

🇵🇱 spodeczki

🇯🇵 受け皿

🇫🇷 soucoupes

🇪🇸 platillos

🇹🇷 fincan altlıkları

🇰🇷 받침 접시

🇸🇦 أطباق صغيرة

🇨🇿 podšálky

🇸🇰 podšálky

🇨🇳 碟子

🇸🇮 podstavki

🇮🇸 undirskálar

🇰🇿 шағын тақтайшалар

🇬🇪 ფილები

🇦🇿 nəlbəkilər

🇲🇽 platillos

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,119, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
23116 warhead
23117 rial
23118 pulping
23119 saucers
23120 baited
23121 uncontested
23122 gaped
...