tea-tray
Definition
Noun: A flat, shallow container with a raised edge, typically made of wood, metal, or plastic, used for carrying and serving cups, teapots, and other items associated with drinking tea. The "tea-tray" is specifically designed for the service of tea, often placed on a table or sideboard.
Usage Examples
- (A flat container for serving tea items.)
- (A decorative serving tray for tea.)
- (A tray used to hold tea-related objects.)
Advanced Usage
- "on the tea-tray": in a formal or traditional context, indicating the presence of a full tea service.
- The maid arranged the sandwiches and cakes on the tea-tray. (The tray was used to present food alongside tea.)
Variants and Related Words
- Tea (n): a hot drink made by infusing dried leaves in boiling water.
- Tray (n): a flat, shallow container for carrying or holding items.
- Tea service (n): a set of items (pot, cups, saucers) used for serving tea, often arranged on a tea-tray.
Synonyms
- Serving tray: a general term for a tray used to carry food or drink.
- Tea trolley: a small wheeled table for serving tea, though not identical to a tray.
- Salver: a flat, usually silver tray used for serving food or drinks in formal settings.
Related Idioms
"Bring the tea-tray": an idiomatic expression meaning to prepare and serve tea, often in a social or ceremonial context.
- When the clock struck four, it was time to bring the tea-tray. (It was time to serve tea.)
"Pass the tea-tray": to offer tea to others, often as a gesture of hospitality.
- She passed the tea-tray to each guest, ensuring everyone had a cup. (She offered the tray containing tea.)
Phrasal Verbs
- Tea-tray is not typically used in phrasal verbs, as it is a concrete noun. However, related actions include:
- Set out the tea-tray: to arrange the tray with tea items for serving.
- She set out the tea-tray with the best china. (She prepared the tray for tea service.)