spatula

noun

spat·​u·​la ˈspa-chə-lə How to pronounce spatula (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
To frost a cake, put a generous dollop of frosting on the top and use either the tip or the bend of the offset spatula as an anchor in the center and spin the cake on your turntable, pushing the frosting away. — Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2026 Slowly whisk the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, then fold in the vegetable oil with a silicone spatula until fully incorporated. — Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 July 2026 Transfer to a large bowl and, using a rubber spatula, mix until slightly malleable. — Matt Lewis, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 July 2026 Use a spatula to push the vegetables to the edges of the skillet, creating an open space in the center. — Laura McLively, Mercury News, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for spatula

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin, spoon, spatula — more at epaulet

First Known Use

1525, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spatula was in 1525

Browse Nearby Words

spattle
spatula
spatulamancy
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spatula.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spatula. Accessed 3 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

spatula

noun
spat·​u·​la ˈspach-ə-lə How to pronounce spatula (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce spatula (audio)
: a flat thin instrument for spreading or mixing soft substances, scooping, lifting, or scraping

More from Merriam-Webster on spatula

Nglish: Translation of spatula for Spanish Speakers

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