spatula

noun spat·u·la \ ˈspa-chə-lə , ˈspach-lə \

|Updated on: 15 Aug 2018

Definition of spatula

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

See spatula defined for English-language learners

Recent Examples of spatula from the Web

Using an off-set metal spatula or small knife, spread a thin layer of goat cheese on one side of each zucchini slice.

— terri milligan, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Keep your cool: No-heat cooking keeps you comfortable and the food fresh," 5 July 2018
With a large metal spatula, carefully turn each piece of fish.

— karoline boehm goodnick, BostonGlobe.com, "Recipe: On the Fourth, salmon with herb oil and smashed whole potatoes are on the grill," 2 July 2018
To serve, gently remove wax paper from underneath cake (holding cake in place with a metal spatula, if necessary), and sprinkle with chocolate chips.

— susan selasky, Detroit Free Press, "5 recipes to cool things down on hot days," 27 June 2018
Then carefully open the grill; use a spatula or tongs to gently flip the items and move them to cooler spots on the grill if things are browning too fast.

— jeanmarie brownson, chicagotribune.com, "How to grill steak to perfection — it's all about controlling the heat," 5 June 2018
Use a heatproof spatula or pot holders to carefully lift the bread out of the pot and place it on a wire rack.

— alex van buren, Health.com, "Making No-Knead Bread Is So Much Easier Than You Think—and You’ll Use It in Meals All Week Long," 23 May 2018
To serve, gently remove wax paper from underneath cake (holding cake in place with a metal spatula, if necessary), and sprinkle with chocolate chips.

— susan selasky, ajc, "5 recipes to cool things down on hot days," 3 July 2018
Use a rubber spatula to stir in the buttermilk until the mixture forms a rough dough.

— sheryl julian, BostonGlobe.com, "Recipe: Irish cooks came to this country knowing how to make brown bread with their eyes closed," 28 June 2018
Meanwhile, make frosting: Use a rubber spatula to mix together mascarpone and nutella until fully incorporated and smooth.

— charlotte druckman, WSJ, "Build a Better Banana Bread," 23 May 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'spatula.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of spatula

Late Latin, spoon, spatula — more at epaulet

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1525

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

Other Household Terms

cruet, curiosity, duvet, fiasco, sham, taper, valance, whatnot

SPATULA Defined for English Language Learners

spatula

noun

Definition of spatula for English Language Learners

: a kitchen tool that has a handle which is bent upward and a wide, thin blade used for lifting and turning foods on a hot surface
: a kitchen tool that has a long handle and short, soft blade and that is used especially for mixing, spreading, etc.
: a kitchen tool similar to a knife that has a flexible blade and that is used for mixing, spreading, etc.