Tablespoon Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฅ
tablespoon
[หteษชbษlหspuหn ]
Definition
kitchen measurement
A tablespoon is a common kitchen utensil used for measuring ingredients when cooking or baking. It is typically larger than a teaspoon and is approximately equal to 15 milliliters in volume. In recipes, it is often used to indicate the quantity of liquid or solid ingredients needed. The tablespoon can also refer to a unit of measurement, especially in cooking where precise amounts are necessary.
Synonyms
measuring spoon, table spoon, tbsp.
Examples of usage
- Add two tablespoons of sugar to the mix.
- The recipe calls for one tablespoon of vinegar.
- She measured out a tablespoon of flour.
- You should stir in a tablespoon of olive oil.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Culinary Science
- In cooking, a tablespoon holds approximately 15 milliliters of liquid, making it a handy tool for measuring ingredients accurately.
- Professional chefs often prefer using weight measurements over volume, but tablespoons remain essential for many home recipes.
Cultural Significance
- Different cultures have distinct spoon sizes, with a tablespoon in the United States differing slightly from those in other countries.
- Cooking traditions around the world often incorporate the spoon as a symbol of hospitality and serving, influencing dining etiquette.
Psychology of Cooking
- Research shows that measuring ingredients with specific tools, like a tablespoon, can make cooking feel more structured and enjoyable.
- Many people find comfort in familiar kitchen tools, using the same tablespoon for years to create family recipes.
History
- Spoons have been around for thousands of years, evolving from seashells and wooden shapes to the metal and plastic designs we see today.
- Ancient Romans had a version of the tablespoon called 'cochlear,' which was used for serving rich dishes in elaborate feasts.
Origin of 'tablespoon'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from combining 'table', referring to where food is served, and 'spoon', the utensil used for eating.
- Historically, the term has roots in Old French and Middle English, reflecting changes in cooking styles and dining practices over time.
The word 'tablespoon' originated from the combination of 'table' and 'spoon'. The term 'spoon' comes from the Old English word 'spลn', which originally referred to a wooden implement used for eating. The inclusion of 'table' suggests the spoon's primary use for eating food served on a table. The usage of tablespoons as a standard unit of measurement in cooking likely began in the 18th century, paralleling the development of more refined cooking practices. Through the years, the tablespoon has become an essential measurement tool in kitchens worldwide, both for home cooks and professional chefs. As a result, the tablespoon has been standardized by various culinary institutions to ensure consistent recipes and cooking outcomes.