The term 'dinner-table protector' refers to two items that are used to protect a dinner table from heat and spills. The first item is a trivet, which is a flat metal or wooden stand with three or four legs that is placed on the table to hold hot dishes. The second item is a DOILY, which is a small, decorative piece of lace or linen that is placed under dishes or other objects to protect the table from scratches or spills.