Definition

1. Noun:
   • A flat, thin piece of metal, ceramic, or other material, often inscribed and used for commemoration or identification: A "plaque" is a commemorative tablet, typically made of brass, bronze, or porcelain, attached to a wall or surface to honor a person or event.
   • (Pathology) A small, distinct, abnormal patch or area on a body tissue or surface: In medicine, a "plaque" refers to a localized, often raised, area of pathological change, such as on the skin, in arteries, or on teeth.

Examples of Usage

• As a commemorative tablet:
  • A brass plaque on the building marks the site of the first parliament.
  • They unveiled a plaque in memory of the town's founder.
• In a medical/biological context:
  • Dentists work to remove plaque from teeth to prevent cavities.
  • Atherosclerosis is characterized by the buildup of fatty plaques in the arteries.
  • The patient had a red, scaly plaque on their skin, diagnosed as psoriasis.

Advanced Usage

• "Plaque" in dentistry: Specifically refers to a sticky, colorless film of bacteria and sugars that constantly forms on teeth.
  • Regular brushing is essential to control dental plaque.
• "Plaque" in neurology: Can refer to amyloid plaques found in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease.
  • The research focused on the role of protein plaques in neurodegenerative diseases.

Variants and Related Words

• Plaque-forming: (Adjective) Describing something that causes or relates to the formation of plaques.
  • Plaque-forming bacteria are the primary cause of tooth decay.
• Plaquette: (Noun) A small plaque, especially a small decorative or commemorative tablet.

Synonyms

• Tablet: A slab or panel, often inscribed (for the commemorative meaning).
• Patch: A small area differing from its surroundings (for the medical meaning).
• Deposit: A layer of matter that has accumulated (e.g., dental plaque).

Related Phrases

• Commemorative plaque: A plaque specifically made to honor and remember.
  • The historic society installed a commemorative plaque on the old library.
• Plaque buildup: The accumulation of material, such as on teeth or in blood vessels.
  • Poor diet can accelerate plaque buildup in the arteries.

Noun

1. a memorial made of brass
2. (pathology) a small abnormal patch on or inside the body