saucer

noun

sau·​cer ˈsȯ-sər How to pronounce saucer (audio)
1
: a small shallow dish in which a cup is set at table
2
: something resembling a saucer especially in shape
especially : flying saucer
saucerlike adjective

Examples of saucer 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.
Each pot features a drainage hole and saucer that will collect excess water, which ensures effective water control without any mess. Mia Huelsbeck, People.com, 31 Aug. 2025 Fill the saucer with water for the birds, or add gravel along with a little water to create a way station for thirsty butterflies. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 22 Aug. 2025 Get the entire tea set with matching cups and saucers and your future grandchildren will argue about who gets it for years to come. Elissa Suh, Architectural Digest, 21 Aug. 2025 Check for standing water in plant saucers, bathroom buckets, or pet bowls, and then dump, clean, and refill them regularly to break the breeding cycle. Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for saucer

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, plate containing a condiment, from Anglo-French, from sauce

First Known Use

1693, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of saucer was in 1693

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Saucer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/saucer. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

saucer

noun
sau·​cer ˈsȯ-sər How to pronounce saucer (audio)
1
: a small round shallow dish in which a cup is set
2
: something like a saucer especially in shape

More from Merriam-Webster on saucer

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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