Strainers Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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strainers

[หˆstreษชnษ™rz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

kitchen utensil

Strainers are devices used to separate solid particles from liquids or to sift dry ingredients. They are commonly used in cooking and baking.

Synonyms

colander, filter, sieve.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
strainers

General term used for tools that separate liquid from solid food.

  • We need some strainers to get rid of the excess water from the pasta.
  • The kitchen has different types of strainers for various cooking tasks.
sieve

A tool with a fine mesh, used to separate smaller particles from larger ones or to sift flour.

  • Use a sieve to remove lumps from the flour before baking.
  • She used a sieve to strain the seeds out of the raspberry sauce.
colander

Usually a bowl-shaped tool with holes, specifically used for draining liquids from pasta or rinsing vegetables.

  • The colander is perfect for straining spaghetti after it's cooked.
  • Rinse the lettuce in the colander before making the salad.
filter

Used to describe devices or materials that remove impurities from liquids or gases, often used in a variety of contexts beyond cooking.

  • The coffee machine needs a new filter to make cleaner coffee.
  • Install a water filter to remove contaminants from your tap water.

Examples of usage

  • Please use the strainer to drain the pasta.
  • She used a strainer to sift the flour for the cake.
Context #2 | Noun

medical equipment

In the medical field, strainers are also used to filter out impurities from fluids. They are essential tools in laboratories for various procedures.

Synonyms

filter, sieve.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
strainers

Strainers are typically used in kitchens to separate liquids from solids, often with a fine mesh. They are suitable for tasks like straining pasta or rinsing fruits and vegetables.

  • The chef used strainers to drain the boiled vegetables.
  • After boiling the pasta, she poured it into one of the strainers to remove the water.
filter

In text or data contexts, filters can refer to tools or methods for sorting information to show only what is relevant or needed.

  • He applied a filter to the spreadsheet to show only the sales data from last year.
  • The social media app has a filter to block inappropriate comments.
sieve

A sieve, similar to a strainer but typically with a finer mesh, is used for sifting fine particles from larger clumps, such as flour or powdered sugar. It is often used in baking.

  • The baker used a sieve to ensure there were no lumps in the flour.
  • She sifted powdered sugar over the cake using a sieve.

Examples of usage

  • The nurse used a strainer to filter the urine sample.
  • The strainer helped remove any contaminants from the liquid.
Context #3 | Noun

construction

In construction, strainers refer to devices used to support and strengthen structures. They help distribute weight evenly and prevent deformation.

Synonyms

reinforcement, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
strainers

Used in the context of cooking or filtering, when separating solids from liquids.

  • He used strainers to drain the pasta.
  • The tea leaves were caught by the strainers.
support

General term for providing assistance or help, can be used in emotional, physical, or functional contexts.

  • She gave her friend emotional support.
  • The beams provide structural support to the building.
  • Customer support is available 24/7.
reinforcement

Applied in situations where additional strength or support is needed, often used in military, construction, or behavioral contexts.

  • The army received reinforcement troops.
  • The bridge required steel reinforcement.
  • Positive reinforcement helps in teaching new skills.

Examples of usage

  • The strainers were installed to reinforce the foundation of the building.
  • These strainers will ensure the stability of the bridge.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Used in kitchens worldwide, these tools are essential for making broth, rinsing vegetables, or draining pasta.
  • Different types include mesh strainers for fine particles and colanders for larger chunks, showing versatility in cooking.
  • In traditional baking, strainers help ensure that flour and sugar are fine and free of clumps for smoother mixes.

Technological Evolution

  • Modern strainers can be made from various materials including stainless steel, silicone, and plastic, enhancing durability and functionality.
  • Innovative designs now feature fine mesh for tea infusers and adjustable sizes for multi-purpose use.
  • High-tech alternatives can include vibrating strainers that speed up the filtering process.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, straining is a ritualized part of food preparation, such as making clear broths or traditional drinks.
  • Thickening soups and sauces often involves the use of strainers, emphasizing their role in flavor enhancement in many culinary traditions.
  • Different shapes and sizes of strainers can symbolize regional cooking styles, reflecting local ingredients and techniques.

Scientific Principle

  • Straining relies on the concept of permeability, which is how easily substances pass through a material.
  • The use of strainers in laboratory settings highlights their importance in chemistry and biology, where filtering mixtures is common.
  • In environmental science, strainers are used in water treatment processes to remove impurities, showcasing their broad utility.

Origin of 'strainers'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'strainer' comes from the Middle English term 'strenere', which is derived from 'strain', meaning to separate.
  • First recorded use of the term dates back to the 14th century, highlighting its long-standing presence in culinary practices.
  • The suffix '-er' in 'strainer' indicates the object performs an action โ€“ in this case, straining or filtering.

The word 'strainers' originated from the Old English word 'streฤn', meaning 'to sift'. Over time, it evolved to refer to devices used for separating or filtering. The concept of strainers has been integral to various fields such as cooking, medicine, and construction, adapting to different contexts and purposes.


See also: strain, strained, strainer, straining.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,091, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.