plaque
UK: plɑːk | US: plæk
n. a flat, thin piece of metal or stone with writing or decoration on it, often fixed to a wall or monument
n. a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth
n. a patch or abnormal deposit on the skin or within the body
The word "plaque" entered English in the 19th century from French, where it originally meant "flat plate" or "sheet." The French term derived from the Middle Dutch placke ("patch, stain"), which itself traces back to a Germanic root meaning "to flatten." Over time, "plaque" expanded semantically to include commemorative plates, dental buildup (resembling a flat film), and pathological deposits—all retaining the core idea of a flat, layered substance.
A bronze plaque marks the historic building’s foundation date.
Dentists recommend brushing twice daily to prevent plaque buildup.
The scientist examined amyloid plaques in brain tissue samples.
The award ceremony included a commemorative plaque for each honoree.
Psoriasis often causes red, scaly plaques on the skin.