spatula
UK: /ˈspætʃ.ə.lə/ | US: /ˈspætʃ.ə.lə/
n. a flat, flexible tool with a broad blade, used for mixing, spreading, or lifting materials (e.g., food, paint).
n. (Anatomy) a small, flattened structure resembling a blade.
spatula = spat<flat blade> + ula<diminutive suffix>
- spat (from Latin spatha, meaning "broad, flat tool/sword")
- ula (Latin diminutive suffix, indicating "small version of")
Etymology Origin:
The word spatula traces back to Latin spatha, a term for a broad, flat weapon or tool (later borrowed into Greek as spathē). The diminutive suffix -ula was added to denote a smaller, more specialized version—originally referring to a small blade or stirring tool. Over time, it evolved into the modern kitchen or laboratory implement.
She used a spatula to flip the pancakes.
The artist mixed paint with a palette spatula.
A spatula is essential for scraping batter from bowls.
The surgeon held the tissue with a delicate spatula-shaped instrument.
He absentmindedly tapped the spatula against the frying pan.