strainer

American  

[strey-ner] / ˈstreɪ nər /

noun

1. a person or thing that strains.

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

3. a stretcher or tightener.

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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

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Etymology

Origin of strainer

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

Compare meaning

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

• colander vs. strainer
• sieve vs. strainer
• strainer vs. sifter

Example Sentences

Prepare the canned beans by pouring the contents into a strainer over the sink.

From Salon • Feb. 7, 2026

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

Set a mesh strainer over a small heatproof bowl and place near the stovetop.

From Washington Times • Jun. 16, 2023

When the last school bell rang, he picked the nearly dry pickles out of the strainer, jammed them into his pockets and threw the strainer behind the oranges.

From "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou

Related Words

• colander
• sieve