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 ¹/₂ 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

Benefits of flaxseed Two tablespoons (about one serving) of ground flaxseed have around 70 calories, nearly 3 grams of protein, and 4 grams of fiber. —Christina Chaey, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Sep. 2025

Scoop peanut mixture with a 1 1/2-tablespoon cookie scoop or by rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared pan to form 15 clusters. —Ann Taylor Pittman, Southern Living, 30 Sep. 2025

Using a few tablespoons of seed oil to cook with or on salad isn't risky. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 30 Sep. 2025

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in an 11- or 12-inch skillet over low heat. —Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 30 Sep. 2025

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
• laocoon
• opportune
• pantaloon
• picayune
• attune
• baboon
• balloon
• bassoon
• buffoon

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