Ladle: meaning, definitions and examples

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ladle

[ˈleɪdəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

used in cooking

A ladle is a large, long-handled spoon with a deep bowl for serving liquids such as soups or stews.

Synonyms

dipper, scoop, spoon.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ladle	A ladle is typically used for serving soups, stews, or other liquid dishes from a pot. It has a long handle and a deep bowl. She used the ladle to serve the chicken soup into bowls. The chef grabbed the ladle to stir the large pot of stew.
spoon	A spoon is a versatile utensil used for eating, stirring, and serving both solids and liquids. It is smaller and more commonly used than a ladle or scoop. He ate his cereal with a spoon. She stirred the tea with a small spoon.
dipper	A dipper is often used for dipping water or other liquids, usually from a container or a well. It's common in rural areas or older kitchens. He filled the dipper with water from the well. Grandma used a dipper to pour water into the kettle.
scoop	A scoop is mainly used for serving or portioning out dry or semi-solid items like ice cream, rice, or flour. It can come in various shapes and sizes. She used the scoop to serve ice cream cones to the children. I need a scoop of flour for this recipe.

Examples of usage

The chef used a ladle to pour the soup into bowls.
She scooped the chili out of the pot with a ladle.
We need a ladle to serve the punch at the party.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

action of serving with a ladle

To ladle means to serve or transfer liquids using a ladle.

Synonyms

dish out, scoop, serve.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ladle	Primarily used for serving liquids such as soups, stews, or sauces. A specific kitchen tool, typically with a long handle and a deep bowl. She used a ladle to serve the chicken soup. The chef grabbed a ladle to pour the sauce onto the dish.
serve	A versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal settings. Applies to presenting food or drinks to people but can also extend to various kinds of service. Dinner is ready; please serve yourselves. The waiter served the guests their drinks.
scoop	Generally used for serving solid or semi-solid food such as ice cream, rice, or mashed potatoes. Also refers to the action of using a specific tool designed for such purposes. He used an ice cream scoop to serve dessert. She scooped some rice onto the plate.
dish out	Can be used more generally for serving food and often has a casual or informal tone. Can also have a slightly negative connotation when used metaphorically to mean giving out criticism or punishment. She dished out generous portions of pasta to everyone. He's always quick to dish out criticism but can't take it himself.

Examples of usage

She ladled the gravy over the mashed potatoes.
He ladled the sauce onto the pasta.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old English 'ladela', which means 'to ladle out'.
Its root can be traced back to Proto-Germanic words, showing a long history of use for serving liquids.

Culinary Use

In cooking, a ladle is often used to portion out soup from large pots, ensuring everyone gets a fair share.
Beyond soups, ladles are also useful for serving sauces and stews, highlighting their versatility in the kitchen.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, ladles are symbolic of hospitality, representing the act of sharing food with others.
Certain ceremonies might include the use of a ladle to bless or pour beverages, connecting the tool to traditions.

Art and Design

Ladles can be found in various artistic forms, from ornate historical silver pieces to modern minimalist designs.
Craftsmanship varies, with some cultures making ladles from materials like wood or ceramic, each telling a story.

Scientific Aspect

The design of a ladle is often ergonomic, making it easier to scoop and pour liquids without spilling or straining.
The angle of the ladle's handle is designed to provide leverage, making it easier to serve hot liquids safely.

Translations

Translations of the word "ladle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 concha

🇮🇳 करछुल

🇩🇪 Schöpflöffel

🇮🇩 sendok sayur

🇺🇦 черпак

🇵🇱 chochla

🇯🇵 おたま

🇫🇷 louche

🇪🇸 cucharón

🇹🇷 kepçe

🇰🇷 국자

🇸🇦 مغرفة

🇨🇿 naběračka

🇸🇰 naberačka

🇨🇳 勺子

🇸🇮 žlica

🇮🇸 ausa

🇰🇿 кепсер

🇬🇪 ხელგადამცემი

🇦🇿 kepçe

🇲🇽 cucharón

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,867, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
18864 wad
18865 incensed
18866 ticking
18867 ladle
18868 octavo
18869 slicing
18870 empiricism
...