dustpan

American  

[duhst-pan] / ˈdʌstˌpæn /

noun

1. a short-handled shovellike utensil into which dust is swept for removal.

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dustpan British  

/ ˈdʌstˌpæn /

noun

1. a short-handled hooded shovel into which dust is swept from floors, etc

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Etymology

Origin of dustpan

First recorded in 1775–85; dust + pan ¹

Example Sentences

That complaint alleged that a dining hall worker wearing gloves used a broom and dustpan to sweep and then made scrambled eggs with the same gloves on, according to the report.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 11, 2025

If the floor seems solid, move the big items outside and scrape smaller debris into a pile, so you can scoop it up with a dustpan or a flat-head shovel.

From Washington Post • Oct. 28, 2022

"A good lint brush can be great for removing pet fur and dander, too, and a dustpan and brush can come in handy for larger debris on sturdier fabric."

From Salon • Jul. 24, 2022

It was designed by artist Bartłomiej Kiełbowicz, who also has created fake labels people have been sticking on shelves inside Leroy Merlin stores, including one for a broom and dustpan “for sweeping away guilt.”

From Seattle Times • May 12, 2022

“We did,” Guillermo says, coming down the stairs with a broom and dustpan.

From "I'll Give You the Sun" by Jandy Nelson