Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

dumb-waiter

noun

ˈdʌmˌweɪtər

Definition

A small freight elevator used to transport food, dishes, or other items between the floors of a building.

Examples

In the restaurant, the dumb-waiter quickly transported meals from the kitchen up to the dining room.
She used the dumb-waiter to send snacks to her friends on the upper floor during the movie night.

Meaning

A dumb-waiter is especially useful in restaurants or homes with multiple levels to facilitate the easy and discreet movement of items without needing human assistance.