double boiler

noun

: a cooking utensil consisting of two saucepans fitting together so that the contents of the upper can be cooked or heated by boiling water in the lower

Examples of double boiler in a Sentence

Melt the chocolate in a double boiler.

Recent Examples on the Web

To cook it on the stovetop: Cook it over medium-low heat with a splash of water in a skillet; alternatively, place frozen corn in a double boiler over boiling water and cook as the package directs, until tender. —Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 25 Mar. 2025

In a bowl over simmering water (aka double boiler), melt butter, chocolate chips, and unsweetened chocolate. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Mar. 2025

Remove upper pan from double boiler (with the chocolate) and wipe bottom of pan to remove any water. —Cathy Thomas, Orange County Register, 3 Feb. 2025

Place water in bottom of double boiler, using just enough so the water doesn’t touch bottom of upper pan. —Cathy Thomas, Orange County Register, 3 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1864, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for double boiler

• broiler
• oiler
• spoiler
• toiler
• reboiler

Kids Definition

double boiler

noun

: a kitchen utensil consisting of two saucepans fitting together so that the contents of the upper can be cooked or heated by boiling water in the lower