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dishes

n. · v.
US //ˈdɪʃəz// UK //dˈɪʃɪz// dish·es
  1. 1 plates and bowls (n.)
    A1 Beginner

    more than one plate, bowl, or cup used for eating and serving food.

    the plural of dish, denoting multiple items of crockery or containers used for food service.

    Example

    We need to put the clean dishes back in the cupboard.

    Example

    The caterers arranged the ceramic dishes across the buffet table, ensuring each platter was easily accessible to the guests.
    • crockery
    • plates
    • tableware
  2. 2 the chore of washing up (n.)
    A1 Beginner

    the task of washing the plates and cutlery after a meal.

    the collective activity of washing used kitchenware and tableware after a meal.

    Example

    It is your turn to do the dishes after dinner tonight.

    Example

    After the holiday feast, the entire family gathered in the kitchen to help do the dishes and clear the counters.

    Usage

    usually used with the verb 'do'
    • washing up
    • dishwashing
    Pitfall
    I am going to make the dishes.
    I am going to do the dishes.

    In English, we use the verb 'do' for chores like cleaning the dishes.

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  1. 3 to serve or gossip (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    to serve food onto a plate, or to share interesting secrets and gossip.

    the third-person singular present form of 'dish', used for serving food or informally for sharing gossip.

    Example

    She always dishes the latest office gossip during our lunch break.

    Example

    The chef dishes the pasta into individual bowls while the waiter prepares the garnish.

    Usage

    often used in the phrasal verb 'dish out'

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