colander
UK: ˈkɒl.ən.dər | US: ˈkɑː.lən.dər
n. a perforated bowl used to drain liquid from food, such as pasta or vegetables
colander = col<strain> + ander<noun suffix>
- col<strain>: From Latin colare ("to strain, filter"), derived from colum ("sieve").
- ander<noun suffix>: A suffix of uncertain origin, possibly influenced by Old French -andre or Latin -atorium (indicating tools or places).
Etymology Origin:
The word colander traces back to the Latin colare, reflecting its function as a straining tool. The suffix -ander likely evolved through Medieval Latin or Old French, attaching to tool-related nouns. The spelling stabilized in Middle English as "colyndore," later simplified to "colander." The word’s logic hinges on its Latin root—colare (to filter)—preserved in its modern form.
She rinsed the quinoa in a colander to remove any bitterness.
The chef placed the boiled potatoes in a colander to drain excess water.
A stainless steel colander is more durable than a plastic one.
He forgot to use the colander, so the pasta was soggy.
The colander’s small holes prevented the rice from falling through.