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strainer

American  
[strey-ner] / ˈstreɪ nər /

noun

strainers plural
  1. a person or thing that strains.

  2. a filter, sieve, or the like for straining liquids.

  3. a stretcher or tightener.


strainer British  
/ ˈstreɪnə /

noun

  1. a sieve used for straining sauces, vegetables, tea, etc

  2. a gauze or simple filter used to strain liquids

  3. a self-locking device or a tool for tightening fencing wire

  4. the main post in a wire fence, often diagonally braced

"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

Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

Etymology

Origin of strainer

Middle English word dating back to 1300–50; see origin at strain 1, -er 1

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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Use whatever strainer you have: Perhaps a fine-mesh, a collander set over another pot or — if you happen to inexplicably have access to a restaurant — a tamis or a chinois.

From Salon • Mar. 22, 2024

While their treatment of the ancient world is informed, to say the least, by their prior work, the scenario also feels like Hallmark pulped through a Disney strainer.

From New York Times • Nov. 9, 2023

In a kitchen blender, puree the watermelon well, and strain through a fine mesh strainer.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 22, 2023

Scraping the pan, pour into the strainer; reserve the bacon fat.

From Washington Times • Jun. 16, 2023

I pick up the strainer I've knocked off the counter in my haste and hold it in my hands.

From "The Sky at Our Feet" by Nadia Hashimi

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