Plaque Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/plæk/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A flat slab of stone, metal, or other material, typically inscribed with an inscription, medal, or other marking, used to commemorate a person, event, or dedication.

Examples

A bronze plaque commemorating the local war heroes is installed at the town hall.
The museum exhibit features a variety of ancient plaques, inscribed with historical events.

Synonyms

Medallion
Talisman

Antonyms

Efface
Lose

Etymology

The word plaque is derived from the Old French word “plaqué”, meaning “flat plate”, which is ultimately from the Latin “plaquea”, the shape of a plate.

Additional Information

Plaques are often used to commemorate special occasions, events, or people. They can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, stone, wood, or glass. Plaques can be simple or elaborate, depending on their purpose and the level of detail required.

Plaques are also used in medicine to describe a growth or lesion on the surface of a body organ or part, such as a plaque on a tooth or a fatty plaque on the inside of a blood vessel.

Usage Notes

Plaques are typically used in the singular, unless referring to a collection or a series. For example, “the plaque on the monument” but “the plaques on the museum wall.”

Cultural References

In popular culture, plaques are often used as symbol of honor, achievement, or commemoration. For example, in the movie “The Shawshank Redemption”, the main character, Andy Dufresne, leaves a plaque on his hotel room door as a symbol of his freedom.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“Plaque off” is a phrase used to imply that someone is not taking responsibility for their actions or consequences.

Related Words or Phrases

Inscription, medal, dedication, commemoration, monument, tombstone, memorial

Collocations

“Plaque on the wall”, “plaque on the door”, “plaque in the museum”, “plaque on the monument”

Frequency of Use

Plaques are commonly used in formal and informal settings, making them a frequent occurrence in everyday language.

Common Misspellings

Plaque can be misspelled as “plak”, “plack”, or “placque.”