set the table
Prepare for supper
To set the table is to arrange plates, utensils, glasses, and napkins in their proper positions before a meal.
The phrase implies preparation for dining, whether casual or formal, and the specific arrangement varies by culture and occasion.
Can you set the table while I finish cooking?
By extension, set the table can mean to prepare conditions for something to happen: The early negotiations set the table for the peace agreement.
- plateFlat dish for food
- chargerPower-restoring device or mount
- cutleryEating implements collectively
- napkinMealtime wiping cloth
- silverwareMetal eating utensils
knife · placemat · glass · fork · flatware · hosting · seating arrangement · centerpiece · prelude · foundation · staging · spoon · serving dish · dishes · meal · groundwork · candles · china
table, setting, tablet, sets, tables, tablecloth, tablespoon, settee, tableau