ashtray

noun

ash·​tray ˈash-ˌtrā How to pronounce ashtray (audio)
: a receptacle for tobacco ashes and for cigar and cigarette butts

Examples of ashtray in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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In this 1966 photo of the musician and his instrument, with glam rock still in the future, one of its superstars is still firmly surrounded by mod, mid-1960s fixtures including his skinny tie and massive ashtray. — Eleni N. Gage, Architectural Digest, 21 Oct. 2026 At Le Sirenuse in Positano, the custom ceramic ashtray became a farewell gift because many guests took it home. — Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 25 July 2026 My father sat behind me at the dining table and tapped his pipe against an ashtray. — Jason Prokowiew, PEOPLE, 1 July 2026 Vintage ashtrays are also kitschy and can become a focal point. — Jennifer Prince, Southern Living, 4 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for ashtray

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ashtray was in 1851

Rhymes for ashtray

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Browse Nearby Words

Ashtoreth
ashtray
Ashur
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ashtray.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ashtray. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

ashtray

noun
ash·​tray ˈash-ˌtrā How to pronounce ashtray (audio)
: a container for tobacco ashes and for cigar and cigarette butts
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