plaque
/plɑ:k/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- 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
- a memorial made of brass
- (pathology) a small abnormal patch on or inside the body