The chafing dish is believed to have originated in India. The word "chafing" comes from the Portuguese word "chafar", which means "to heat" or "to warm". The first chafing dishes were made of metal and were used to keep food warm over an open flame. They were often used for cooking, as well as for serving food. Chafing dishes became popular in Europe in the 18th century and were used by the upper classes to keep their food warm at dinner parties. Today, chafing dishes are still used for cooking and serving food, but they are also used for decorative purposes.