What is a kitchen trivet used for?

A trivet serves to raise a container with food above the table or other surface, allowing the air to circulate under the container. It may prevent a table finish from scorching by a hot pot, or help the food to cool.

A trivet may also serve as a roasting rack. It raises meat above the surface of a roasting pan to make it crispy by keeping it out of its juices.

Most trivets are metal tripods that carry a metal tray. There are also ceramic and silicone trivets. In the 19th century, cast iron trivets served to hold pots and pans above a fire. Antique or vintage trivets may become part of a collection.