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

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of the dumpling sauce, 2 tablespoons of the salad kit dressing, 1 tablespoon mandarin orange juice, remaining 1 tablespoon oil, and the ginger. —Kate Williams, AJC.com, 11 May 2026

For a final option, boil a mixture of 1 quart of water with 2 to 3 tablespoons of cream of tartar, lemon juice, or vinegar for 5 to 10 minutes. —Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 9 May 2026

Remove from the heat and add two tablespoons of baking soda to the pan. —Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 7 May 2026

Start with one tablespoon at a time and drink plenty of water to help prevent bloating or digestive discomfort. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 30 Apr. 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 ¹/₂ fluid ounce or 15 milliliters