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

Using a spatula, fold the remaining meringues into the cream. —Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 18 June 2025

Cook until sizzling and brown on both sides and cooked through, 2 to 4 minutes per side or as needed, using offset spatula to turn once. —Judy Bart Kancigor, Oc Register, 5 June 2025

Take a soft spatula and run it around the rim of the pancake to release it from the pan and then wiggle the spatula underneath to flip it. —Elise Taylor, Vogue, 10 May 2025

That’s a lot of dog bandanas, bead kits, frosting spatulas and tchotchkes. —Elisabeth Buchwald, CNN Money, 2 May 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