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Coasters


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263424
Coasters

Coasters are small, flat objects that are used to protect surfaces from damage or staining caused by hot or cold drinks. They are typically made from materials such as cork, cardboard, plastic, wood, or metal and come in various shapes and sizes. Coasters are not only functional but can also be decorative, featuring images, logos, or text, and can be used for promotional purposes. One interesting aspect of coasters is their historical origin. The term coaster originally referred to a thick board of wood or stone used as a base on which to place a pot or glass. As usage expanded, the meaning of the word evolved to include any object used to protect the surface of a table, such as a doily. Eventually, the word coaster began to refer to a small vessel that is used to protect surfaces from being stained or marred. The term is derived from the historical use of coasters as a device for flat-bottomed vessels to slide upon and easily move from one spot to another on the surface. Another interesting aspect of coasters is their cultural significance. In many cultures, coasters are an essential part of hospitality and are used to show respect for guests. For example, in Japan, it is customary to use coasters when serving tea or other beverages. In Western cultures, coasters are often used in homes and restaurants to protect tables and other surfaces from damage. Overall, coasters are a practical and decorative item that has a rich history and cultural significance. They are essential for protecting surfaces from damage and staining caused by hot or cold drinks and are an important part of hospitality in many cultures.

protection, decoration, history, culture, hospitality

John Williams

226846
Coasters

Classifying the word “Coasters” as a part of speech is relatively straightforward - it is a noun. Synonyms for this noun could include things like “bottle coasters” or “drink coasters”. Antonyms for this noun would be items that serve the opposite function of a coaster, such as the vessel from which liquids are poured or consumed, such as a “mug” or a “glass”. Cognates of this word might include related forms such as “coast” or “coastline”. Variants of the word can include things like “coastguards” or “coastal” regions.

Etymological Roots, Coaster, Noun, Lexical Entries, Noun Forms, Cognates, Synonyms, Antonyms, Descriptions

George Adrian Postea

CITATION : "George Adrian Postea. 'Coasters.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=226846 (Accessed on July 04, 2025)"

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Coasters

The English word “coaster” is derived from the Old French term costeour and ultimately from the Latin word costa, meaning “rib” or “side.” Its origin can be traced back to the 16th century, when the term referred to a thick board of wood or stone used as a base on which to place a pot or glass. As it became used more often, the meaning of the word expanded to include any object used to protect the surface of a table, such as a doily. As usage further expanded, the word “coaster” eventually began to refer to a small vessel that is used to protect surfaces from being stained or marred. The term is derived from the historical use of coasters as a device for flat-bottomed vessels to slide upon and easily move from one spot to another on the surface. Of utmost importance in this usage is the cushioning of the surface from any kind of damage or soiling. Morphologically, “coaster” is a simple, one-syllable word that is easily understood. Pragmatically, the use of the word “coaster” is understood contextually in the way it is used in the discourse of homemakers, hostesses, and hosts for protection of surfaces.

Etymology, morphology, phonology, semantics, pragmatics.

Henry Fontaine

181391
Coasters

Coasters are small, flat objects that are used for protecting surfaces from damage or staining. They are typically made from materials such as cork, cardboard, plastic, wood, or metal. Coasters are used to protect tables, counters, and other surfaces from the heat and moisture of hot or cold drinks, and from the condensation of cold drinks. They also help to absorb any spills or messes caused by drinks. Coasters can be decorated with images, logos, or text, and can be used for promotional purposes.

Beverage coaster, drink coaster, beverage protector, table protector, cork coaster, coaster set, coaster design.

Robert Johnson

180423
Coasters

Coasters are small flat disks made out of various materials such as paper, plastic, and cork. They are typically round or square in shape, and have a protective coating on one side to prevent liquid from soaking through. Coasters are designed to protect surfaces from liquid damage, such as water rings on wood furniture.

Coaster, drink, absorbent, cork, table protection.

Wilson Reynolds


Coasters Definition
Coasters on Design+Encyclopedia

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