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 ½ 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

Immediately spread each burger with 3 tablespoons marinara sauce and top with a mozzarella round. — ABC News, 19 Sep. 2026

Return 2 tablespoons of the reserved bacon grease to the nonstick skillet and heat over medium. — Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 19 Sep. 2026

Officials said the pesticide is an ultra-low-volume treatment that sprays approximately two tablespoons per acre. — Michele Gile, CBS News, 16 Sep. 2026

Meanwhile, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. — Kate Williams, AJC.com, 14 Sep. 2026

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
• importune
• laocoon
• opportune
• pantaloon
• picayune
• attune
• baboon
• balloon
• bassoon

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 ½ fluid ounce or 15 milliliters