1. Eating and serving utensils, typically made of metal, including forks, knives, and spoons.
Usage: Chiefly North American; British English typically uses 'cutlery'.
2. Flat metal goods or articles, such as sheets or plates of metal.
Usage: Less common; technical or commercial usage.

Examples

• She polished the silver flatware before the dinner party.
• The restaurant provided flatware wrapped in napkins at each place setting.
• We registered for flatware as part of our wedding gift list.
• The drawer was organized with forks, knives, and spoons in separate flatware compartments.
• Stainless steel flatware is more durable than silver for everyday use.