spatula

noun

spat·​u·​la ˈspa-chə-lə 

ˈspach-lə

: a flat thin implement used especially for spreading or mixing soft substances, scooping, or lifting

Examples of spatula in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Another employee took cardboard off the floor and didn’t put soap on the hands before using the spatula to pull food off the stove. —David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 19 Feb. 2026

Flip with a spatula and cook until browned on the other side. —Amy Drew Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 18 Feb. 2026

If the wax has hardened and the wax warmer is freezer-safe, place it in the freezer for 20 minutes and pop out the wax with a plastic spatula to prevent scratching. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 16 Feb. 2026

Use an offset spatula to swirl the homemade caramel into the frosting. —Patricia S York, Southern Living, 16 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin, spoon, spatula — more at epaulet

First Known Use

1525, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

spatula

noun

spat·​u·​la ˈspach-ə-lə 

: an instrument with a thin flexible blade used especially for spreading or mixing soft substances or lifting

Medical Definition

spatula

noun

spat·​u·​la ˈspach-(ə-)lə 

: a flat thin instrument for spreading or mixing soft substances, scooping, lifting, or scraping