Tray

/treɪ/ noun

Definition

A flat, usually rectangular container with raised edges used for carrying or serving items.

Etymology

From Middle English 'traye,' possibly from Old English 'trog' meaning 'wooden vessel.' The word may be related to Germanic roots referring to wooden containers. It evolved from a simple wooden carrying vessel to the modern trays we use today.

Kelly Says

Trays became super important in cafeterias and hospitals because scientists realized that when people eat off trays instead of separate plates, they waste less food—so this simple object actually helps solve problems!

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