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

To make brown butter, place 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan and set the pan over medium heat. —Robin Miller, AZCentral.com, 29 July 2025

Step 3: Coat Griddle with Oil Using a paper towel, apply a thin layer (2 to 3 tablespoons for large griddles) of griddle seasoning or neutral, high-heat cooking oil to the griddle. —Katlyn Moncada, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 July 2025

Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. —Kate Bradshaw, Mercury News, 25 July 2025

Sprinkle reserved 1 tablespoon flour into skillet; whisk constantly until no more white remains. —Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 20 July 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