saucepan

American  

[saws-pan] / ˈsɔsˌpæn /

noun

1. a metal container of moderate depth, usually having a long handle and sometimes a cover, for stewing, boiling, etc.

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saucepan British  

/ ˈsɔːspən /

noun

1. a metal or enamel pan with a long handle and often a lid, used for cooking food

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Etymology

Origin of saucepan

First recorded in 1680–90; sauce + pan ¹

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Compare meaning

How does saucepan compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• saucepan vs. frying pan

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Explanation

A saucepan is a deep stovetop pan with a long handle and, usually, a lid. You might use a saucepan to cook sauce, or for the macaroni from your box of macaroni and cheese. Saucepans are made out of various materials, from stainless steel and aluminum to copper and enamel-coated metal. If you have a kitchen, it's pretty likely you have a saucepan. They are deep enough to boil water in, and made to be used on top of a flame or electric coil. As you might guess from the name, the first saucepans, invented in the 17th century, were intended only for making sauces.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

saucepan

The possibility of strangers allowing marinara to fossilize on my favorite saucepan is among the many reasons I’ve never considered entering the vacation rental business.

From Salon ● Oct. 28, 2026

As the peaches soften, periodically crush them against the side of the saucepan with the back of a wooden spoon or a potato masher to help release their juices.

From Salon ● Aug. 16, 2026

I like to make mine by heating sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger and cut green chillies in a small saucepan over medium heat.

From Salon ● Jun. 28, 2026

Meanwhile, make the blueberry sauce: Combine the remaining blueberries, water, honey, orange juice and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan over medium heat.

From Salon ● May 25, 2026

I throw a little salt in the saucepan with the vegetables.

From "Like Vanessa" by Tami Charles

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Related Words

• basin
• bowl
• bucket
• can
• cup
• jar
• jug
• kettle
• mug
• pan
• urn
• vessel

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