coaster
UK: ˈkəʊstə | US: ˈkoʊstər
n. 1. A small mat or tray placed under a glass to protect a surface from condensation or heat.
n. 2. A ship that sails along a coast.
n. 3. A roller coaster or similar amusement ride.
The word "coaster" derives from "coast," originating from the Latin costa (rib, side) via Old French coste (shore). The suffix "-er" denotes an agent or object associated with the root. Initially, "coaster" referred to ships sailing along coastlines (16th century). Later, it expanded to objects "riding along" surfaces (e.g., drink coasters, roller coasters), reflecting the core idea of movement or adjacency to a boundary.
She placed her wine glass on a wooden coaster to avoid staining the table.
The coaster ship transported goods between ports in the Mediterranean.
Children screamed with excitement as the roller coaster plunged downward.
He collects vintage beer coasters from different breweries.
The café offers handmade ceramic coasters as souvenirs.