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

The gorgeous and tasty caramel and cream cheese frosting looks the best when applied with a small offset spatula to give it that swirly effect on the cake. — Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 25 Oct. 2026

Smart kitchen helpers for cooking and baking, including silicone baking mats, mini mitts, a multi-function spatula, collapsible strainer, Fill-A-Baster and more. — ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026

Gradually add half of the warm cream mixture to mashed potatoes, folding with a spatula until combined, followed by ½ cup sour cream. — Chris Morocco, Bon Appetit Magazine, 19 Oct. 2026

Fry until the skin is deeply browned and crisp, 4 to 6 minutes per side, using tongs and a fish spatula to turn and a spoon to baste the top of the fish with hot oil a few times. — Emma Specter, Vogue, 14 Oct. 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