Why Is It Called A Charger Plate?

Why Is It Called A Charger Plate? Food is not actually served on chargers; they are often called underplates or chop plates. The word “charger” originated around 1275–1325 from the Middle English “chargeour”. Formerly, a charger signified either a large platter or a large, shallow dish for liquids. What is the purpose of a charger