spatula
[spach-uh-luh]
- an implement with a broad, flat, usually flexible blade, used for blending foods or removing them from cooking utensils, mixing drugs, spreading plasters and paints, etc.
Show More
Origin of spatula
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for spatula
Contemporary Examples
He uses a spatula to flatten the onions and the meat together, creating a broad circular patty with an uneven edge.
Free up the crust with a spatula, and breaking it into smaller pieces, place and serve on separate serving dish.
Sam was in the kitchen standing over a sizzling skillet of bacon, spatula in hand.
Historical Examples
The embryo has the form of a spatula with the head at one end and the tail at the other.
The Sexual QuestionAugust Forel
They were accompanied by a metal stirrer (spatula) for turning the beans.
All About CoffeeWilliam H. Ukers
Thus at one end there will be a probe, at the other a spatula, a spoon, or a hook.
Surgical Instruments in Greek and Roman TimesJohn Stewart Milne
Both the rosin and soap should be well stirred with the spatula.
The offer of a hoe in exchange for her spatula was accepted with joy.
The Life and Labours of the Rev. Samuel MarsdenSamuel Marsden
spatula
- a utensil with a broad flat, often flexible blade, used for lifting, spreading, or stirring foods, etc
Show More
Word Origin
C16: from Latin: a broad piece, from spatha a flat wooden implement; see spathe
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Word Origin and History for spatula
n.
1520s, from Latin spatula "broad piece, spatula," diminutive of spatha "broad, flat tool or weapon," from Greek spathe "broad blade" (see spade (n.1)). Erroneous form spattular is attested from c.1600.
Show More
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper