Definition

Items such as forks, spoons, and knives that are made of silver or have a silver coating, used for eating and serving food.

Example

We set the table with beautiful silverware for the special dinner.

Conversation

Did you see the new silverware set I got for my kitchen?

Yeah, it's beautiful! Where did you find it?

I got it online; it was on sale last week.

That's awesome! I need to upgrade my silverware too.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Silverware is formed from "silver" (from Old English "seolfor", meaning the metal silver) and "ware" (from Old English "waru", meaning goods or products). The term refers to goods made of silver, typically utensils or tableware.

Memory Tip

Think of 'silver' as the metal and 'ware' as products or goods — silverware means products made of silver.

Visually Confused Words