English Reference

Word

platter

Phoneticsplat·ter, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈpɫætɝ/

UK/plˈætɐ/

Countable noun

Definition

n. a large, flat plate used for serving food to several people at once. It is often used for snacks, fruit, or meat at a party.

n. a large, shallow dish used for serving food. In technical contexts, refers to the circular magnetic disk in a hard drive or the rotating plate of a turntable.

Examples

“The waiter brought a large platter of cheese to our table.”

“We ordered a seafood platter to share among the four of us at the restaurant.”

“The host arranged a diverse platter of local delicacies, ensuring there were enough vegetarian options to accommodate every guest's dietary requirements.”

Examples

simple

“The waiter brought a large platter of cheese to our table.”

contextual

“We ordered a seafood platter to share among the four of us at the restaurant.”

complex

“The host arranged a diverse platter of local delicacies, ensuring there were enough vegetarian options to accommodate every guest's dietary requirements.”

Usage

Often used with the preposition 'of' to describe the contents.

Real-World Examples

“Arrange the leaves on a shallow serving platter and scatter the grated carrot on top.”
The Guardian 20 May 2023
“Spoon on to one large platter, or divide between four plates, and serve hot or warm.”
The Guardian 24 Sept 2016
“Platters of roasted new potatoes, buttery leeks and caramelised carrots come next.”
The Independent 30 Jan 2016

Domains

ComputingMusic

This entry

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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English Reference