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Spoonsful Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฅ„
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spoonsful

[spuหnzfสŠl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

cooking measurement

The term 'spoonsful' refers to the quantity that a spoon can hold. It is commonly used in cooking and baking to specify the amount of an ingredient required for a recipe. Typically, this can denote both tablespoon (tbsp) and teaspoon (tsp) measurements, although itโ€™s usually associated with larger quantities. Understanding the concept of spoonsful is essential for accurate food preparation and can greatly affect the outcome of a dish.

Synonyms

measures, spoonfuls.

Examples of usage

  • Add two spoonsful of sugar.
  • Stir in three spoonsful of olive oil.
  • You will need five spoonsful for the dressing.
  • The recipe calls for a spoonsful of vanilla extract.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Arts

  • Different types of spoons (like teaspoons and tablespoons) measure different amounts, which makes cooking precise.
  • In recipes, 'spoonsful' helps cooks understand how much to add, ensuring flavors balance.

Social Context

  • Sharing food often involves passing around spoonsful of dishes during family meals, showcasing togetherness.
  • The term reflects the communal aspect of dining, as it is often used when serving others.

Measurement Systems

  • In cooking, a tablespoon is approximately three teaspoons, illustrating how spoonsful can vary based on the spoon size.
  • Using spoons as measurements bridges traditional cooking with modern recipes, making it accessible to everyone.

Cultural References

  • In some cultures, eating directly with spoons is common, reflecting on how important they are in everyday meals.
  • Children's stories often depict characters using spoons to eat, adding a playful element to learning about food.

Origin of 'spoonsful'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'spoon' comes from the Old English 'spลn', meaning a tool used for scooping food.
  • The suffix 'ful' means 'full of', so 'spoonsful' literally means 'full of spoons'.
  • This term is often used in cooking to describe measurements, linking the tool directly to the quantity.

The term 'spoonful' has its roots in the combination of 'spoon' and 'full'. The word 'spoon' dates back to the 14th century, derived from the Old French 'espoon', which also has Germanic origins related to similar words in languages like Dutch and German. The suffix 'ful' adds the sense of capacity or amount, indicating how much a spoon can contain when filled. Over time, 'spoonful' became a standard measurement in culinary contexts. The plural form 'spoonsful' is used to express multiple quantities, emphasizing the importance of accurate measurements in cooking. This linguistic evolution reflects the practical needs of food preparation and the way language adapts to incorporate common practices.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,608, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.