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

People can experience relief from constipation with 1 tablespoon in the morning. —Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 22 Oct. 2025

Melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter in a large saucepan over medium. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 22 Oct. 2025

Add ice water 1 tablespoon at a time, stopping when the dough comes together. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Oct. 2025

And a four-tablespoon serving of Vital Proteins Unflavored Collagen Peptides contains 18 grams of protein. —Danielle Zickl, SELF, 17 Oct. 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