Spatula

/ˈspæt.jʊ.lə/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A kitchen utensil with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting, spreading, or flipping food.
She used a spatula to flip the pancakes on the hot griddle.
A similar tool used in scientific or medical settings, often for mixing or applying substances.
The technician used a spatula to apply the paste evenly on the surface.

Etymology

From Latin 'spatula', meaning 'broad blade'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

spatula flip
The action of flipping food with a spatula.
spatula technique
A method or style of using a spatula effectively in cooking.

Related Words

turner
A kitchen utensil similar to a spatula, often used for flipping foods.
palette knife
A broad blade used for spreading icing on cakes.

Slang Meanings

To do something half-heartedly or carelessly.
Don't just spatula it; put some effort into it!