noun
silverware
SIHL-vuh-weh-uh
noun
1
Cutlery — knives, forks, and spoons — whether or not actually made of silver.
"She laid out the silverware before the guests arrived."
2
(informal) Trophies or medals won in competition.
"The club has picked up plenty of silverware over the years."
How to Use Silverware
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTable cutlery, or, informally, trophies won in sport or competition.
UK vs US
American English uses "silverware" broadly for everyday cutlery, even plastic; British English more often says "cutlery" and reserves "silverware" for actual silver items or trophies.
Common pairings
polish the silverware
win silverware
Word Forms
silverwares plural
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She laid out the _____ before the guests arrived.