saucer

noun

sau·​cer ˈsȯ-sər How to pronounce saucer (audio)
Synonyms of saucernext
1
: a small shallow dish in which a cup is set at table
2
: something resembling a saucer especially in shape
especially : flying saucer
saucerlike
ˈsȯ-sər-ˌlīk How to pronounce saucer (audio)
adjective

Examples of saucer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Make sure to empty any excess water that drains into the saucer to keep the roots from getting soggy. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 30 June 2026 Above the minibar are Kemp’s pretty teacups and saucers designed for Wedgewood. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026 Empty standing water at least once a week (birdbaths, pet bowls, plant saucers), fix dripping faucets and keep gutters clear. — Sharon Wu, USA Today, 16 June 2026 Teaspoons are placed to the right of the teacup saucer if serving tea or another applicable beverage. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for saucer

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, plate containing a condiment, from Anglo-French, from sauce

First Known Use

1693, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of saucer was in 1693

Phrases Containing saucer

Rhymes for saucer

See All Rhymes for saucer

Browse Nearby Words

saucepot
saucer
saucer dome
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Saucer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/saucer. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

saucer

noun
sau·​cer ˈsȯ-sər How to pronounce saucer (audio)
1
: a small round shallow dish in which a cup is set
2
: something like a saucer especially in shape

More from Merriam-Webster on saucer

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for saucer

Nglish: Translation of saucer for Spanish Speakers

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