strainer

American  

[strey-ner] / ˈstreɪ nər /

noun

1. a person or thing that strains. strain.

2. a filter, sieve, or the like for straining strain 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; 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

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

Canned tomatillos make the prep go quickly, but be sure to crush and drain them in a strainer over a bowl before using them.

From Washington Times • Dec. 25, 2023

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

He caught them and hooked the strainer onto the side of the barrel where they dripped until he was ready for them.

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

Related Words

• colander
• sieve