tablespoon

noun

ta·​ble·​spoon ˈtā-bəl-ˌspün 

1

: a large spoon used especially for serving

2

: a unit of measure used especially in cookery equal to ¹/₂ fluid ounce (15 milliliters)

Examples of tablespoon in a Sentence

She carefully measured the flour with a tablespoon.

Add two tablespoons of flour.

The recipe calls for four tablespoons of milk.

Recent Examples on the Web

Melt remaining 3 tablespoons butter in a medium nonstick skillet over medium. —Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 29 Jan. 2025

Meanwhile, heat 1/2 tablespoon oil in a large deep skillet over high heat. —Cathy Thomas, Orange County Register, 27 Jan. 2025

Arrange 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling in an even horizontal mound just below the center of the wrapper. —Kate Bradshaw, The Mercury News, 27 Jan. 2025

Repeat moistening flour mixture, using 1 tablespoon of the water at a time, until flour mixture is moistened. —Katlyn Moncada, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1741, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing tablespoon

• level teaspoon/tablespoon

Kids Definition

tablespoon

noun

ta·​ble·​spoon ˈtā-bəl-ˌspün 

1

: a large spoon used especially for serving food

2

: a unit of measure used in cooking equal to ½ fluid ounce (about 15 milliliters)

Medical Definition

tablespoon

noun

ta·​ble·​spoon ˈtā-bəl-ˌspün 

: a unit of measure equal to 4 fluid drams or ¹/₂ fluid ounce or 15 milliliters