ashtray
UK: ˈæʃtreɪ | US: ˈæʃtreɪ
n. a receptacle for tobacco ashes and cigarette or cigar butts.
The word "ashtray" is a straightforward compound of "ash" (Old English æsce, meaning residue from combustion) and "tray" (Old English trēg, meaning a flat, shallow container). It emerged in the early 20th century with the rise of cigarette smoking, combining functional descriptors to name an object designed to hold ash. The morphemes retain their original meanings, reflecting the word's practical purpose.
He tapped his cigarette into the glass ashtray.
The antique silver ashtray was a gift from her grandfather.
Please empty the ashtray before guests arrive.
A pile of cigarette butts filled the ceramic ashtray.
She absentmindedly twirled her fingers around the edge of the ashtray.