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

Just 1 tablespoon of chia seeds can add a mild nutty flavor and crunch that blends well with other ingredients without overpowering the dish. —Sohaib Imtiaz, Verywell Health, 20 Aug. 2025

Mix 1 cup water and 1 tablespoon vinegar in a spray bottle, spritz lightly, let sit for 10 seconds and then wipe for a streak-free finish. —Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 19 Aug. 2025

Pour the sauce into a bowl along with the tablespoon of peanut butter and mix, mix, mix until it’s thoroughly combined. —Audrey Bruno, SELF, 13 Aug. 2025

Combine 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a gallon of water, and spray on leaves once a week or so. —Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Aug. 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