tablespoon

noun

ta·​ble·​spoon ˈtā-bəl-ˌspün 

1

: a large spoon used especially for serving

2

: a unit of measure used especially in cookery equal to ½ fluid ounce (15 milliliters)

Examples of tablespoon in a Sentence

She carefully measured the flour with a tablespoon.

Add two tablespoons of flour.

The recipe calls for four tablespoons of milk.

Recent Examples on the Web

For extra power, mix a tablespoon of dish soap into the formula. — Abid Haque, Architectural Digest, 20 Aug. 2026

Heat about 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil, canola oil, or butter in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. — Sheena Chihak, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Aug. 2026

If the rice becomes dry, add a few tablespoons of hot water or chicken stock to prevent it from burning. — Durrie Bouscaren, NPR, 20 Aug. 2026

In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon water to make an egg wash. — ABC News, 18 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1741, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing tablespoon

• level teaspoon/tablespoon

Rhymes for tablespoon

• afternoon
• forenoon
• honeymoon
• importune
• laocoon
• opportune
• pantaloon
• picayune
• attune
• baboon
• balloon
• bassoon

Kids Definition

tablespoon

noun

ta·​ble·​spoon ˈtā-bəl-ˌspün 

1

: a large spoon used especially for serving food

2

: a unit of measure used in cooking equal to ½ fluid ounce (about 15 milliliters)

Medical Definition

tablespoon

noun

ta·​ble·​spoon ˈtā-bəl-ˌspün 

: a unit of measure equal to 4 fluid drams or ¹/₂ fluid ounce or 15 milliliters