noun

la vaisselle

dish · dishes

Ce sont les objets comme les assiettes, les verres et les couverts que l’on utilise pour manger et boire.

The French word "vaisselle" refers to dishes, tableware, or crockery—the plates, bowls, glasses, cups, and cutlery used for serving and eating food.

Meaning:

It usually denotes the set of items used during a meal.
It can also refer collectively to the washing or doing of dishes (e.g., faire la vaisselle = to do the dishes).

Synonyms and differences:

Assiettes: Specifically means "plates."
Couverts: Refers to "cutlery" (forks, knives, spoons).
Ustensiles: Means kitchen utensils, which can include cooking tools as well as some items for eating.
Service: Can refer to a complete set of tableware or dishes, particularly those that match.

Compared to "assiettes" or "couverts," "vaisselle" is a broad term encompassing all types of dining dishes and tableware.

Summary:

"Vaisselle" is the general term for dishware used at the table, and also commonly implies the act of washing these dishes when someone says faire la vaisselle.