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

Two tablespoons of chia seeds provide only about 4 to 5 grams. — Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 18 Oct. 2026

Just a tablespoon a day delivers powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits supporting heart health, brain function, and longevity. — ABC News, 17 Oct. 2026

Rub all over with 2 tablespoons of the oil, ½ teaspoon of salt, and a good grind of pepper. — Carole Kotkin, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026

Along with reducing water usage for dyeing and finishing from 75 liters to roughly two tablespoons, WTRLSS estimates that its technology also cuts energy use by up to 90 percent versus conventional methods. — Jennifer Bringle, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 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