Trenchers

Trenchers, plural of trencher, traditionally refer to wooden boards or platters used for serving food, particularly during medieval times. These were simple, often rectangular, and provided a surface for eating, replacing the need for individual plates. Over time, the term expanded to include the food served on them, and metaphorically, individuals or institutions that consume or exploit resources heavily, often in a way that benefits them. This usage implies excessive indulgence or gluttony, with a sense of appropriation or waste. In essence, trenchers represent both the tools of consumption and, figuratively, the consumers themselves.

Trenchers meaning with examples

• In the medieval feast, the knights ate their roast boar and stew from wooden trenchers. These were common, functional, and easily replaced after the meal. Using trenchers for the food highlighted the communal dining experience, before individual plates became standard. This simple, practical setup facilitated the enjoyment of the meal in a social setting.
• The old family gathered for their annual Christmas dinner, all setting around the long table in the old farmhouse and making use of their own trenchers to serve the food they all took time to prepare. There was a great selection of meats and sweets to be enjoyed and all were in good humor, thankful of the occasion.
• Critics labeled the oil company's executives as economic trenchers, accusing them of over-extracting resources for personal profit with little regard for environmental damage. Their decisions led to destruction of the local landscape for personal gain, with little consideration for sustainability or the community.
• The political appointees were accused of being 'government trenchers', gorging on public funds through inflated salaries, extravagant expenses, and corruption. The public outrage focused on the perception of self-enrichment, demonstrating a pattern of prioritizing personal advantage above serving the common good, leaving the tax payers high and dry.