Saucer is defined by Dictionary.com and by The Free Dictionary as a saucer.
A saucer is a small dishware.While in the Middle Ages a saucer was used for serving condiments and sauces, today's term is used to mean a small plate or shallow bowl that supports a cup.The depression or raised ring in the center of the saucer was only introduced during the 18th century.The saucer is useful for protecting surfaces from damage due to the heat of a cup and to catch overflow, splashes, and drips from the cup, thus protecting both table linen and the user sitting in a free-standing chair.A wet spoon can be used to stir the drink in the cup in order to mix sweeteners or creamers into tea or coffee.
Some people pour the hot tea or coffee from the cup into the saucer; the increased surface area of the liquid exposed to the air increases the rate at which it cools, allowing the drinker to consume the beverage quickly after preparation.It was common in the 18th century, but by the end it was considered offensive.[4]
teacups with unique styling are often sold with matching saucers, sometimes alone, or as part of a tea set, including a teapot and small dessert plates.
saucers don't have much influence on beverage cooling rate when placed beneath a cup.For hot, water based beverages.The cooling rate in a cup is usually dominated by evaporation, which occurs across the free surface in contact with the air.The transfer of heat from the bottom of the cup to the top is small.Reducing the heat in the cup won't affect the cooling rate of the beverage.There is a citation needed.
Placing a saucer on top of a cup is an effective way of reducing the cooling rate so that the drink remains warmer for longer.The reduction in heat loss due to evaporation is usually more than the increase associated with the transfer of heat through the saucer.There is a citation needed.
George Washington was asked why the Senate had been created.Washington asked Jefferson why he poured the tea into his saucer.Jefferson said to cool it.Washington said that they pour legislation into the senatorial saucer to cool it.