Plate

Plate (Dinnerware)

A plate is a shallow, usually circular, object from which food might be eaten or served. Plates might usually be made of wood or earthenware. Metal plates also existed with pewter becoming relatively common amongst the well to do in the 15th century.

Objects distinctive as individual plates rather than platters are known from c. 1300.

At the household of a wealthy individual this might be replaced by a trencher for feasts.

Plate, Bring a

Modern Australian terminology for a pot-luck meal. Abbreviation of "Bring a plate of food".

Plate (armour)

Modern abbreviation of plate armour. Also the individual piece of metal or horn that make up a pair of brigandines or coat of plates

Plate (object

Piece of material (especially metal), that is much thinner than either of its other dimensions.