Tray

A flat, often rectangular, container with a raised rim, used for carrying, holding, or displaying items. Trays can be made from various materials like wood, metal, plastic, or ceramic, and come in diverse sizes and styles. Their primary function is to provide a convenient and organized surface for transporting or presenting objects, preventing spills and making it easier to handle multiple items at once. They are widely employed in serving food and beverages, organizing small objects, or holding materials during various tasks. Trays can also be decorative, used to enhance aesthetic appeal and complement interior design. Some include multiple compartments. They can be single or multi-layered. They are often used with a stand to put them at a height or angled toward the user. They range from small individual ones to large ones for industrial applications.

Tray meaning with examples

• The waiter carefully balanced a silver tray laden with steaming plates of pasta and glasses of wine, navigating through the crowded restaurant. He skillfully wove between tables, ensuring the food arrived hot and intact. Guests appreciated the attentive service and presentation, the tray itself adding an element of sophistication to the dining experience, protecting from accidental spillages.
• After a long day at work, Sarah prepared a relaxing bath, gathering bath salts, candles, and her favorite book on a bamboo tray. She placed the tray beside the bathtub, creating a spa-like atmosphere in her bathroom. The small items were organized and easy to access. The tray prevented her from dripping anything in the wrong place and gave the setup aesthetic appeal.
• In the art studio, the painter arranged her palette, brushes, and various paint tubes on a large, rectangular tray. This setup ensured that all her materials were within easy reach and contained spills. The tray also served as a mobile workstation, allowing her to move her supplies from one easel to another with minimal effort, keeping everything together.
• The hospital staff wheeled a tray containing sterile surgical instruments into the operating room. The instruments had to be completely sterile. The orderly had placed them on the tray in advance. It provided a secure and hygienic means of transporting essential equipment, crucial for ensuring a successful and safe surgical procedure with minimal disruption.