ˈplād.ə(r), -lātə- noun
( -s )
1. : one that plates: as
a.
(1) : a worker that plates metal or metal objects with gold or silver
(2) : one that applies a protective coating of nickel or similar substance to metal objects by means of an electrolytic bath — called also bath plater, electroplater, vatman
(3) : one that coats plastic articles with metal plate
(4) : a textile worker that plates fabric or yarn
b. : an operator of a machine for impressing the weave pattern of linen fabric onto paper
c. : a worker that presses hat brims by hand
2. : a machine for plating paper — called also plate calender
3.
a. : a horse that runs chiefly in purse races and especially in claiming races
b. : an inferior racehorse