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

Meanwhile, bring remaining 1/2 cup blackberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, and water to a boil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 20 Apr. 2026

Stir the grated Parmesan cheese and remaining 2 tablespoons butter into the orzotto until fully incorporated. —Kate Williams, AJC.com, 20 Apr. 2026

Because 1 tablespoon contains about 90 calories, over-consuming tahini can contribute to excess calorie intake and unwanted weight gain. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2026

An easy way to treat this disease is to make a spray using 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1/2 a teaspoon of dish soap, and 1 gallon of water. —Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 17 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
• 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