Word
plateau
Phoneticsplateau
US/pɫæˈtoʊ/
UK/plˈætəʊ/
Definitions
01high flat land
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun
n. a large area of flat land that is high above sea level.
n. an extensive area of relatively level high ground; a tableland.
“The hikers finally reached the plateau and could see for miles across the flat ground.”
“The Tibetan Plateau is often referred to as the Roof of the World due to its immense elevation and vast scale.”
Antonyms
02period of no progress
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun
n. a time when something stops increasing or improving after it has been growing.
n. a state of little or no change following a period of activity or progress.
“After losing ten pounds quickly, my weight reached a plateau and stayed the same for weeks.”
“The company's stock price hit a plateau in the third quarter as investors waited for news of the new product launch.”
Synonyms
03ornamental tray
C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Archaic · Formal
n. a decorative tray or dish used for holding items on a table.
n. an ornamental dish or tray for the table, typically used in formal settings.
“The silver plateau held a variety of expensive fruits at the center of the dining table.”
“The museum's collection includes a gilded bronze plateau from the Napoleonic era, designed to reflect candlelight during state banquets.”
Usage
Often used with the verbs 'reach' or 'hit'.
Real-World Examples
“The Meseta Central, Spain’s huge central plateau acts like a high-altitude semi-desert.” “The views provide a close look at the Chajnantor plateau within the Altiplano-Puna volcanic complex.” Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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