place mat

noun

1. a mat set on a dining table beneath a place setting.

Word History and Origins

Origin of place mat¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

There were teapots sprouting roses by Mary Rose Young, as well as hand-painted throw pillows, twig place mats and antique jewelry.

From New York Times

Floral bouquets float across a solid-color woven Jacquard base in Botanic, a rug by Chilewich, a company better known for place mats.

From Seattle Times

“I bet he couldn’t pass the quiz on a Denny’s place mat.”

From New York Times

In the dimly lit basement dining room, wood paneling covered the walls, and paper place mats cheerily proclaimed, “We’re glad you’re here!”

From Seattle Times

McGee also likes to use things with pleasing textures, so she might add place mats woven from natural grasses, glassware with visible air bubbles and iron candlesticks.

From Seattle Times