Carafe/kəˈræf/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Dinner Table A carafe is commonly found on dinner tables and is associated with meal times. Could you please pass the water carafe? Pro Tip 2/3Elegance Using a carafe can add elegance to serving drinks, such as wine, at gatherings. The host served the vintage wine from a crystal carafe. Pro Tip 3/3Not for Cooking A carafe is not used for cooking or heating; it's for serving only. After the tea is brewed, transfer it to the carafe.