This is the 11893rd most frequent German word.
tischen
To set or lay the table.
The verb 'tischen' relates to setting the table; here, it's used in its past tense form as 'gedeckt' when paired with 'den Tisch'. This usage demonstrates a common household activity.
Ich habe gestern den Tisch gedeckt, obwohl niemand mir geholfen hat.
I set the table yesterday, even though no one helped me.
In this context, 'tischen' is used with a directional prefix 'auf-' forming 'auftischen' which emphasizes the act of serving, typically food or drink.
Die Kellnerin tischte das Essen elegant auf.
The waitress elegantly served the food.
When figuratively used, the verb 'auftischen' can mean to narrate or fabricate a story. Here, it demonstrates its metaphorical application suggesting the act of presenting a story as one might present a dish.