tray

noun

: an open receptacle with a flat bottom and a low rim for holding, carrying, or exhibiting articles
trayful noun

Examples of tray in a Sentence

She carried the tray of food to our table. a car with several storage trays
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
MacKenzie-Childs Tartan Red Rattan Party Serving Tray With this darling MacKenzie-Childs serving tray, you’re bound to be the hostess with the mostess come the holiday season. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 4 Nov. 2025 Xu suggests placing your reed diffusers on a tray or coaster to avoid this scenario. Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Nov. 2025 The optional ambient lighting and an aromatherapy tray features add to the calming vibe for winding down before bed. Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 31 Oct. 2025 This gorgeous red marble tray from Westbourne is the latest addition to my setup. Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tray

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English trīg, trēg; akin to Old Swedish trø wooden grain measure and probably to Old English trēow tree — more at tree entry 1

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tray was before the 12th century

Cite this Entry

“Tray.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tray. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

tray

noun
: an open container with flat bottom and low rim for holding, carrying, or exhibiting articles
trayful noun

Medical Definition

tray

noun
: an appliance consisting of a flanged body and a handle for use in holding plastic material against the gums or teeth in making negative impressions for dentures

More from Merriam-Webster on tray

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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