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

Add about 3 tablespoons of the buttermilk brine to the flour mixture and rub together with your fingers to create small clumps. —Robin Miller, The Arizona Republic, 19 Dec. 2024

Most small devices can easily grind 1-2 tablespoons at a time. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Health, 16 Dec. 2024

For this method, gather together a large stainless steel pot, water, vinegar, and 1 to 3 tablespoons of salt. —Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 16 Dec. 2024

In a small bowl, soften 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin in 1 tablespoon of cold water. —Angelica Stabile, Fox News, 16 Dec. 2024

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