Spoon
UK /["/spuːn/"]/US /["/spuːn/"]/
Definition
a tool that has a handle with a shallow bowl at the end, used for mixing, serving and eating food
In simple words: A small, round tool used for eating or serving food.
Examples
- a plastic/metal spoon
- a soup spoon
- Wait until the chocolate melts completely, stirring with a spoon.
- Press the top down gently with the back of a spoon.
- Thai food is eaten with a spoon.
- I stirred my coffee with the sugar spoon.
- The children argued over who should lick the spoon.
- a 5 ml measuring spoon
- two spoons of sugar
Usage notes
Use 'spoon' when referring to the utensil for eating or serving liquids and soft foods. Avoid using it in formal settings when discussing kitchenware in detail.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of a small 'spoon' that fits in your hand, like a 'key' to unlock tasty soups.
Collocations
- slotted
- serving
- soup
- pick up
- put down
- hold
- spoon of
- slotted
- serving
- soup
- pick up
- put down
- hold
- spoon of
Synonyms
- utensil
- scoop
- ladle
Antonyms
- fork
- knife
Common mistakes
- Confusing 'spoon' with 'fork' as they serve different purposes.
- Using 'spoon' to describe larger utensils when it only refers to small ones.