Etymology Borrowed from French plateau, diminutive of plat (“a plate”); see plate. Doublet of platter.
1
A largely level expanse of land at a high elevation; tableland.
2
A comparatively stable level after a period of increase. (of a varying quantity)
Childhood obesity, rising for more than two decades, appears to have hit a plateau, a potentially significant milestone in the battle against excessive weight gain among children.2008 May 28, Tara Parker-Pope, “Hint of Hope as Child Obesity Rate Hits Plateau”, in The New York Times, →ISSN:
3
Dated An ornamental dish for the table; a tray or salver.
4
Broadcasting, Hobbies, Lifestyle, Media, Sports A notable level of attainment or achievement.
5
Any of several distinct, dose-dependent stages of a dextromethorphan trip.
Etymology Borrowed from French plateau, diminutive of plat (“a plate”); see plate. Doublet of platter.
1
Of a varying quantity To reach a stable level after a period of increase; to level off.
Mr. [Jensen] Huang is nevertheless correct. Adoption has plateaued.2026 February 21, David Streitfeld, “People Loved the Dot-Com Boom. The A.I. Boom, Not So Much.”, in The New York Times, →ISSN: