silverware
UK: ˈsɪlvəweə | US: ˈsɪlvərwer
n. utensils, such as forks, knives, and spoons, used for eating or serving food and made of or coated with silver or other metals.
The word "silverware" combines "silver," referring to the metal historically used for high-quality utensils, and "ware," a term for manufactured goods. Originally, it denoted items made of silver, but over time, it expanded to include cutlery made of other materials. The suffix "-ware" traces back to Old English "waru" (merchandise or articles), reflecting its functional classification.
The elegant dining table was set with polished silverware.
Modern silverware often includes stainless steel for durability.
She inherited a set of antique silverware from her grandmother.
Restaurants typically provide clean silverware wrapped in napkins.
The museum displayed 18th-century silverware as part of its colonial collection.