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.
That week, the Tuesday tray included broccoli, powdered mashed potatoes and cookies. Lauren Villagran, USA Today, 19 Oct. 2025 In a nice, convenient touch, the drive trays insert from the back of the case. PC Magazine, 18 Oct. 2025 Staffing shortages in University of Colorado Hospital’s sterilization department were so acute this summer that state inspectors reported finding trays of surgical tools caked in blood and tissue that had been left sitting in rooms and a hallway for more than 24 hours. Jessica Seaman, Denver Post, 17 Oct. 2025 Consider adding a large decorative tray to corral coffee table books, candles, and plants, which creates an organized and personable display. Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 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 24 Oct. 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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