steam table

American  

noun

1. a boxlike table or counter, usually of stainless steel, with receptacles in the top into which containers of food may be fitted to be kept warm by steam or hot water in the compartment below.

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Etymology

Origin of steam table

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

steam table

While Mr. Fryer was bagging produce as a teenager at Albertsons, I was slinging barbecue sandwiches over a steam table at our local drive-in to help cover my upcoming college expenses.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 12, 2026

Or maybe I would have been behind the steam table giving customers dollops of carrots and carving their turkey.

From Salon ● Feb. 17, 2022

Second, the lamb shanks and chicken must be available for immediate consumption, ready to serve straight from a steam table.

From Washington Post ● Oct. 18, 2021

Some people also love the rectangular metal containers meant to be used as steam table inserts.

From Seattle Times ● Aug. 11, 2021

“Just don’t leave the steam table with it.”

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover