place mat

noun

1. a mat set on a dining table beneath a place setting.

Word History and Origins

Origin of place mat¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

“I think you need to eat something,” she said, slapping the bowl onto a place mat, and she was right.

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There were teapots sprouting roses by Mary Rose Young, as well as hand-painted throw pillows, twig place mats and antique jewelry.

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Floral bouquets float across a solid-color woven Jacquard base in Botanic, a rug by Chilewich, a company better known for place mats.

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“I bet he couldn’t pass the quiz on a Denny’s place mat.”

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In the dimly lit basement dining room, wood paneling covered the walls, and paper place mats cheerily proclaimed, “We’re glad you’re here!”

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