colander

noun

col·​an·​der ˈkä-lən-dər How to pronounce colander (audio) ˈkə- How to pronounce colander (audio)
: a perforated utensil for washing or draining food

Examples of colander in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Drain and cool in a colander for 5 minutes, then transfer to a large bowl. Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 30 July 2025 Drain the berries in a colander in the sink, rinsing them with a light spray of running water. Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 28 July 2025 Place florets in colander and allow to cool about 8 minutes. Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 28 July 2025 Follow these steps: Choose the almonds: Opt for raw, unsalted almonds for soaking. Rinse the almonds: Place the almonds in a colander and rinse them under cool water to remove dust or impurities. Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Health, 24 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for colander

Word History

Etymology

Middle English colyndore, probably modification of Old Occitan colador, from Medieval Latin colatorium, from Latin colare to sieve, from colum sieve

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of colander was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Colander.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/colander. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

colander

noun
col·​an·​der ˈkəl-ən-dər How to pronounce colander (audio) ˈkäl- How to pronounce colander (audio)
: a utensil with small holes for draining food

More from Merriam-Webster on colander

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