salt-cellar

A small salt-cellar sits on the dining table next to a pepper mill.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A container for salt: A "salt-cellar" is a small vessel or dish, typically placed on a dining table, used for holding salt for individual use during meals.

Usage Examples

• (She took the container of salt from the table.)
• (The small dish for salt was decorative and old.)

Advanced Usage

• "Salt-cellar" as a historical term: In earlier centuries, a "salt-cellar" was often a more elaborate piece of tableware, sometimes made of precious metals, and its placement at the table indicated social status.
  • In medieval banquets, the salt-cellar was placed near the host, and guests seated "below the salt" were of lower rank. (The position of the salt container signified hierarchy.)

Variants and Related Words

• Salt (n): a crystalline compound used for seasoning food.

  • Please pass the salt. (The seasoning in a shaker or cellar.)

• Cellar (n): a room below ground level used for storage.

  • We keep wine in the cellar. (A basement storage area.)

• Salt shaker (n): a container with holes for sprinkling salt (more common in modern usage).

  • He used the salt shaker instead of the salt-cellar. (A different type of salt dispenser.)

Synonyms

• Salt dish: a simple bowl for holding salt.
• Salt holder: any container designed for salt.

Related Idioms

• "Above the salt": to be in a position of high honor or importance.

  • The distinguished guest was seated above the salt at the formal dinner. (Given a place of high status.)

• "Below the salt": to be in a position of lesser importance.

  • The junior employees were seated below the salt. (Given a lower-status position.)