tea-set

A family uses a tea-set for their afternoon tea.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A matching set of dishes for serving tea: A "tea-set" is a coordinated collection of items used for preparing and serving tea, typically including a teapot, cups, saucers, a sugar bowl, and a creamer, often made of porcelain or ceramic.

Usage Examples

• (A matching set of tea-serving dishes.)
• (A complete collection for serving tea.)
• (The set of dishes designated for a special occasion.)

Advanced Usage

• "to bring out the tea-set": to use the formal or best tea-serving dishes for a special occasion.
  • For the Queen's visit, they brought out the finest tea-set. (They used the most elegant dishes for serving tea.)
• "a tea-set as a gift": a tea-set is often given as a wedding or housewarming present.
  • The couple received a porcelain tea-set as a wedding gift. (A matching set of tea dishes given to celebrate the wedding.)

Variants and Related Words

• Tea-service (n): a synonym for tea-set, referring to the same collection of items.
  • The tea-service was displayed in a glass cabinet. (The matching set of tea dishes.)
• Teapot (n): a container with a spout and handle for brewing and pouring tea, a key component of a tea-set.
  • The teapot from the tea-set had a floral pattern. (The pot used for brewing tea.)
• Teacup (n): a small cup for drinking tea, part of a tea-set.
  • Each teacup in the set had a matching saucer. (The cups used for drinking tea.)

Synonyms

• Tea service: a complete set of dishes for serving tea.
• Tea ware: vessels and implements used for tea preparation and consumption (broader term, may not imply a matching set).

Related Idioms

• • That formal tea-set is not really my cup of tea; I prefer modern designs. (A playful use of the idiom, meaning the style is not to my liking.)