The spelling of "crumb tray" follows the basic English orthographic rules. It is pronounced as /krʌm treɪ/ with the stress on the first syllable. The word is composed of two simple words, "crumb" and "tray", that form a compound noun indicating a tray designed to collect loose crumbs from food. The spelling of each word is straightforward, but the combination of the two words implies the purpose of the tray, which is to gather crumbs. The usage of the word is common in households and restaurants to keep dining areas clean.
A crumb tray, also known as a crumb catch tray, is a small, removable tray that is specifically designed to collect crumbs or small food debris that may fall or accumulate during food preparation, cooking, or during the consumption of certain food items such as toast and pastries. It is commonly used in kitchen appliances, particularly in toasters and toaster ovens, as well as in certain countertop grills and sandwich makers.
The crumb tray is typically placed at the bottom or underside of the appliance and is easily accessible for cleaning purposes. It is constructed from materials such as metal or heat-resistant plastic, which can withstand high temperatures during cooking or toasting without compromising the tray's integrity. Some crumb trays may have a non-stick coating to facilitate the removal of crumbs and make cleaning more convenient.
To use a crumb tray, one simply needs to slide it out from the appliance after use, discard the collected crumbs, and then wipe or rinse it clean. By employing a crumb tray, it helps to prevent the accumulation of food particles inside the appliance, avoiding potential fire hazards or unpleasant odors. It also allows for easier cleaning and maintenance, ensuring that the appliance remains hygienic and in optimal working condition for an extended period.
The word "crumb tray" is a compound word formed by combining the noun "crumb" and the noun "tray".
Etymologically, the word "crumb" originated from the Old English "cruma" which referred to a small fragment or piece of bread. The word "crumb" has evolved to describe the small particles or fragments that fall off from baked goods or other food items.
The word "tray" has an even older origin, dating back to the Old English word "trog" which referred to a flat board or plate. Over time, the term "tray" came to be used to describe a flat, shallow container or receptacle used for holding or serving food.
When these two words are combined, forming "crumb tray", it refers to a shallow container or tray specifically designed to collect or hold the crumbs that may fall from food, helping to prevent mess and maintain cleanliness.