Couver

Couver is a term that can refer to several distinct concepts depending on the context. In the realm of firearms, a couver, or couver plate, is a protective covering for the hammer or breech of a firearm. This plate historically served to shield the mechanism from debris and accidental firing. In some older firearm designs, the couver might have also been an integral part of the overall aesthetic.

The term can also appear in culinary contexts, particularly in French cuisine, where "couvert" (often anglicized as cover or couver) refers to the charge a restaurant levies per person for bread, butter, and sometimes small appetizers or table water. This cover charge is a common practice in many European countries and is intended to offset the cost of these initial offerings. It is important for diners to be aware of this charge, as it is usually listed on the menu or may be communicated by the server.

Beyond these specific applications, "couver" can also be used more generally as a verb meaning to cover or to brood. This broader usage draws from its Latin root, "couvrir," meaning to cover. Therefore, understanding the specific field or conversation in which "couver" is used is essential to correctly interpreting its meaning.