Trencher (tableware)

A trencher was a roughly square or circular piece of stale bread used as a plate in medieval and early modern Europe. Rather than being eaten, the trencher served as a surface upon which food was served and consumed. Trenchers were typically made of coarse, stale bread, although wooden trenchers were also used, especially among the less affluent.

Over the course of a meal, the trencher would soak up the juices and sauces of the food placed upon it. After the meal, the trencher might be eaten by the diner (especially if made of good quality bread and soaked with flavorful sauces), given to the poor, or fed to animals. Soaking the bread with food enhanced the flavor and made even poor quality bread palatable.

The use of trenchers gradually declined as more affordable and durable tableware became available, such as ceramic plates and bowls. By the 17th century, trenchers had largely been replaced by more modern forms of tableware in most parts of Europe. However, the term "trencher" sometimes persisted to refer to a wooden platter or a large, shallow dish.