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"?>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

Many recipes, including this one, ask for 1 tablespoon or less to lend a subtle yet deep smoky heat to dishes. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Dec. 2025

Add 1 tablespoon baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 9 Dec. 2025

Beat in 6 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time; scrape side of bowl occasionally. —Kelly Brant, Arkansas Online, 9 Dec. 2025

Using 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil can boost nutrient absorption and make kale easier to digest. —Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 8 Dec. 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