place mat

noun

: a small often rectangular table mat on which a place setting is laid

Examples of place mat in a Sentence

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.
Sealed with a reactive blue finish, this 12-piece set looks like the ocean itself when paired with beige linen tablecloths and wicker place mats to mimic the sandy beach. Kylie Petty, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Apr. 2026 The Central Elementary fifth grader has tied warm blankets for people in need, made holiday place mats for Meals on Wheels, and crafted colorful dog toys for local animal shelters. Shelley Jones, Chicago Tribune, 14 Jan. 2026 Then, add place mats; Rezak notes that these should be simple enough not to overpower the table runner. Sarah Lyon, Architectural Digest, 26 Nov. 2025 There are also two drawers below that can conceal kitchen essentials, like tablecloths and place mats. Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for place mat

Word History

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of place mat was in 1928

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Place mat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/place%20mat. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

place mat

noun
: a small table mat on which a place setting is laid
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster