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

Some of our favorite budget-friendly tools and gadgets are deeply discounted right now—from fish spatulas and instant-read thermometers to vegetable choppers and prep bowls. —Olivia Tarantino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 11 July 2025

Using a silicone spatula smooth out batter pushing batter into the corners and making it even. —Cathy Thomas, Mercury News, 8 July 2025

Spoon mixture into a loaf pan, smooth top with a rubber spatula and press a sheet of plastic wrap to the surface. —arkansasonline.com, 8 July 2025

An employee was observed washing a wok spatula and kabob skewer without sanitizing them. —Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado, Sacbee.com, 3 July 2025

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