The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Chafing \Chaf"ing\, n. [See Chafe, v. t.]
   The act of rubbing, or wearing by friction; making by
   rubbing.
   [1913 Webster]

   Chafing dish, a dish or vessel for cooking on the table, or
      for keeping food warm, either by coals, by a lamp, or by
      hot water; a portable grate for coals.

   Chafing gear (Naut.), any material used to protect sails,
      rigging, or the like, at points where they are exposed to
      friction.
      [1913 Webster]

WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):

chafing dish
    n 1: a metal pan over a heater; used to cook or to keep things
         warm at the table