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Spoonful Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฅ„
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spoonful

[หˆspuหnหŒfสŠl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

measurement unit

A spoonful is a unit of measurement that is equal to the amount a spoon can hold. Typically, it is used in cooking and baking to measure ingredients like sugar, flour, or liquid. Depending on the type of spoon used (teaspoon or tablespoon), the actual volume may vary. A tablespoon is often considered to be approximately 15 milliliters, while a teaspoon is about 5 milliliters. Spoonfuls are commonly used in recipes, making them a practical measure in household cooking.

Synonyms

measure, scoops, tablespoon, teaspoon.

Examples of usage

  • Add a spoonful of sugar to your tea.
  • The recipe calls for a spoonful of olive oil.
  • She ate a spoonful of the delicious soup.
  • Just a spoonful of salt can enhance the flavor.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Arts

  • Chef measurements often use spoonfuls as a standard unit for recipes, emphasizing its practical everyday use in cooking.
  • A standard spoonful is usually about 15 milliliters, but different types of spoons can hold various amounts depending on their design.

Health and Nutrition

  • Dieticians sometimes measure sugar intake in spoonfuls, making it easier for people to regulate how much they consume.
  • Certain spoonfuls of food, like honey or herbs, are believed to provide health benefits due to their concentrated nutrients.

Cultural References

  • In literature, characters often refer to a spoonful of sugar, which can make unpleasant tasks (like taking medicine) seem easier.
  • Songs and stories across cultures often mention spoonfuls, using them to illustrate love and care, as in feeding someone close to you.

Metaphors and Expressions

  • The phrase 'a spoonful of kindness' suggests that just a small amount of kindness can make a big difference in someoneโ€™s day.
  • In phrases like 'just a spoonful', it can refer to the idea that something small can have significant impact, whether it be food or feelings.

Origin of 'spoonful'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'spoon' originates from the Old English 'spลn', which means a chip or splinter of wood, reflecting its wooden origins.
  • Combining 'spoon' with 'ful', meaning 'full of', gives the direct meaning of a 'spoonful' being as much as a spoon can hold.

The word "spoonful" dates back to the late 16th century and is derived from the combination of the word "spoon" and the suffix "-ful," which means 'full of' or 'having the quantity of.' The term reflects the idea of a quantity that a spoon can hold. The spoon itself, as a tool for eating and measuring, has ancient origins, with archaeological evidence suggesting that spoons were used as early as 3000 BC in various cultures. Over the centuries, spoons have evolved in design and materialโ€”ranging from wood to metalโ€”while the concept of measuring with them has remained integral to cooking and serving food. The use of spoonfuls in recipes allows for a practical approach to ingredient measurement, helping both novice and experienced cooks create dishes with precision.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,235, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.