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Cutlery

“Cutlery” is usually defined using another misleading term, “silverware” or “flatware.” Silverware traditionally was called such because it was made of silver. The term “flatware” began to be used once pieces began to be merely silver plated. “Cutlery” is a word that sounds like it should cut things, but most cutlery items don’t cut (forks, spoons, serving spoons, etc.).

Modern-day cutlery is usually made of stainless steel, though fine silver is still sold at upscale department stores for the purposes of bridal registry. Plastic utensils are also made in abundance for use outdoors (camping, picnics, etc.). Airlines sometimes use plastic utensils when they serve meals.

Most commonly, cutlery refers to the knife, spoon and fork, though the knife is little more than something to spread butter with and push food onto other utensils. Specialty knives all have their own name and individual tasks, though they are sometimes sold in a set or butcher block.

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