mâm vỉ
Definition
- Noun:
- A low, rectangular wooden tray or platter, traditionally used for serving food or presenting offerings.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Bà xếp bánh chưng lên mâm vỉ để cúng tổ tiên. (She arranged the square sticky rice cakes on the rectangular wooden tray to worship the ancestors.)
- Người phục vụ bưng mâm vỉ đầy các món khai vị ra cho khách. (The server brought out a rectangular wooden platter full of appetizers for the guests.)
Advanced Usage
- The mâm vỉ is a specific type of traditional serving tray. Its rectangular shape and low legs distinguish it from round, legless trays () or taller stands.
Variants and Related Words
- Mâm (n): A general term for a round, flat tray or platter, often made of metal or wood, used for serving food.
- Khay (n): A tray (often with raised edges), which can be rectangular or round and made from various materials like plastic or metal.
Synonyms
- Tray
- Platter
- Serving tray
Related Cultural Context
- Mâm vỉ is strongly associated with Vietnamese tradition, especially in ritual and ceremonial contexts. It is commonly used during festivals (e.g., Tết), death anniversaries (), and prayers to present offerings like food, fruit, and incense in a neat, organized, and respectful manner.