silverware
Americannoun
noun
Etymology
Origin of silverware
Compare meaning
How does silverware compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Explanation
The tools you use to eat your food, including spoons, forks, and knives, are called silverware. Some silverware is actually made of silver, but silverware made of stainless steel is much more common these days. If you're eating with a shiny plastic fork, don't call it silverware; call it plasticware. However, if you're eating with a stainless steel fork, you can get away with calling it silverware. Traditionally, fancy cutlery (or silverware) has been made of sterling silver. This is where the word silverware came from in the late 1800s. It's such a common term in the U.S. today that many people use it for knives, forks, spoons, and serving implements no matter what metal they're made of.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
After 11 trophies in three years in Spain, Batlle, 27, has signed a four-year deal with an option for a further 12 months at Arsenal and is targeting more silverware.
From BBC ● Jul. 28, 2026
Ever since Kane scored with his third touch for his country in March 2015, he has been the driving force behind England's bid to end their long wait for international silverware.
From BBC ● Jul. 9, 2026
He had no trophies, no silverware and seemed to have missed out on his big move.
From BBC ● Jul. 9, 2026
If you’re the type who likes to be ready at the drop of a hat, try any one of these all-inclusive picnic setups, which include plates, silverware, cups and even a wine opener.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 4, 2026
There were knives and plastic utensils and silverware and kitchen tools in a plastic box.
From "The Road" by Cormac McCarthy
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
