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Utensils Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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utensils

[juːˈtɛnsɪlz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

in the kitchen

Utensils are tools or implements used in the kitchen for cooking or eating food. They can include items such as knives, forks, spoons, spatulas, and tongs.

Synonyms

implements, kitchenware, tools.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
utensils

Commonly used when referring to hand tools used for eating or cooking in a kitchen.

  • Please put the utensils on the table
  • Cooking utensils include spoons, spatulas, and whisks
tools

A more general term that applies to devices used to carry out a particular function, can be used in many contexts including but not limited to the kitchen.

  • He used the right tools to fix the car
  • Kitchen tools like blenders and mixers are very useful
implements

Often used when referring to tools or instruments that have a specific use, not limited to the kitchen.

  • The gardener collected his implements from the shed
  • Agricultural implements are essential for farming
kitchenware

Used for items and appliances used in a kitchen, including pots, pans, utensils, and other cooking gear.

  • She bought new kitchenware for her apartment
  • The store sells a wide variety of kitchenware

Examples of usage

  • Please make sure you have all the necessary utensils before you start cooking.
  • She washed the utensils after dinner.
  • I need a new set of utensils for my kitchen.
  • The chef used various utensils to prepare the meal.
  • He carefully arranged the utensils on the table for the dinner party.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • Early utensils made from materials like wood, bone, and stone were used by ancient civilizations for eating and food preparation.
  • The fork, as we know it today, became widespread in Europe during the 16th century, before which people primarily used knives and spoons.

Cultural Significance

  • Different cultures have unique utensils; for example, chopsticks are commonly used in East Asia, while Western cultures predominantly use forks and knives.
  • In some cultures, eating with hands is traditional, highlighting the importance of utensils as cultural symbols rather than just functional items.

Science

  • Material science has influenced utensil design, with stainless steel and plastic becoming popular due to their durability and ease of cleaning.
  • Research shows that the shape and design of utensils can affect how much food people consume, influencing portion control.

Art

  • Designers have created artistic utensils that blend functionality with beauty, turning everyday items into collectible art pieces.
  • The aesthetic appeal of utensils has been embraced in culinary presentations, where the style of the tools contributes to the overall dining experience.

Origin of 'utensils'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'utensil' comes from the Latin word 'utensilium', meaning 'useful tool' or 'instrument'.
  • In English, the term gained popularity in the 14th century, originally referring to both cooking and serving tools.

The word 'utensils' originated from the Latin word 'utensilia', which means 'tools'. Utensils have been used by humans for thousands of years to aid in food preparation and consumption. Over time, different cultures developed their own unique utensils based on their culinary traditions and available resources. Today, utensils play a crucial role in modern kitchens, making cooking and dining more convenient and efficient.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,474, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.