Plaque
/plæk/
Definitions
3 meaningsA sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth.
/plæk/
A deposit on teeth or other surfaces.
The dentist removed the plaque from my teeth.
💡 Simply: Imagine a layer of yucky stuff building up on your teeth. That yucky stuff is called plaque! It's why we brush our teeth!
👶 For kids: It's like sticky stuff on your teeth that can make them sick.
More Examples
Poor oral hygiene can lead to a build-up of plaque and tooth decay.
How It's Used
"Regular brushing and flossing can help prevent the build-up of dental plaque."
A flat piece of metal or stone, often with words on it, used to honor someone or something.
/plæk/
A flat, thin piece of metal, ceramic, or other material, often inscribed with a name or words, used as a memorial or decoration.
The city erected a plaque in honor of the famous author.
💡 Simply: Sometimes, people put up a special sign, called a plaque, to remember someone important or an event. Like a 'Congratulations' sign, but more permanent.
👶 For kids: It's a flat piece of metal or stone with words on it to remember someone or something special.
More Examples
The plaque was placed on the wall of the building to mark its historical significance.
How It's Used
"A plaque was unveiled to commemorate the soldiers who died in the war."
"The museum displayed a historical plaque detailing the town's founding."
A flat, raised patch or deposit, such as a patch on the skin associated with a disease.
/plæk/
A patch or patchlike area, usually on the skin.
The doctor diagnosed the rash as a skin condition causing plaques.
💡 Simply: Sometimes doctors use 'plaque' to describe a patch of something unusual on the skin that may be a symptom of a disease.
👶 For kids: It's like a little bump or patch on your skin.
More Examples
A biopsy was taken to determine the cause of the plaque.
How It's Used
"Psoriasis can cause raised, red plaques on the skin."
Idioms & expressions
plaque psoriasis
A common skin condition that causes raised, scaly, itchy patches on the skin.
"People with plaque psoriasis often have red patches of skin covered in silvery scales."
arterial plaque
A buildup of cholesterol, fat, and other substances in the arteries.
"Arterial plaque can restrict blood flow and lead to heart disease."
From French *plaque* 'plate, patch', of uncertain origin. Possibly from Dutch *plak* 'patch'.
The word 'plaque' was used in the 18th century to refer to a flat, ornamental piece. Its medical meaning, relating to dental deposits, developed later.
Memory tip
Think of it like a sticky, invisible coating on your teeth.
Word Origin
"plate, patch"