spatula

noun

spat·​u·​la ˈspa-chə-lə 

ˈspach-lə

: a flat thin implement used especially for spreading or mixing soft substances, scooping, or lifting

Examples of spatula in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Microwave on high power, stirring with rubber spatula every 3 minutes, until apples are just starting to turn translucent around edges and liquid is thick and glossy, 10 to 14 minutes (see cook’s notes). —Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 13 Oct. 2025

Scoop pastry cream into the baked pie shell, and use a spoon or offset spatula to smooth. —Stephanie Ganz, Southern Living, 12 Oct. 2025

Allow the cookies to cool on the pan for 2 minutes, then use a heat-safe spatula to transfer them to a wire rack to cool to room temperature. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Oct. 2025

Rubbermaid Silicone Spatula Not all spatulas are made equal, and there’s a reason this one is professional baker-approved. —Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 11 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin, spoon, spatula — more at epaulet

First Known Use

1525, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

spatula

noun

spat·​u·​la ˈspach-ə-lə 

: an instrument with a thin flexible blade used especially for spreading or mixing soft substances or lifting

Medical Definition

spatula

noun

spat·​u·​la ˈspach-(ə-)lə 

: a flat thin instrument for spreading or mixing soft substances, scooping, lifting, or scraping