spoon
/spuːn/
A tool defined by its concave bowl and handle, designed for scooping, stirring, or eating liquid and semi-solid foods. It evokes a sense of domesticity, comfort, and nourishment.
In a physical context, it is the primary alternative to the fork or knife, specifically chosen when precision cutting or piercing is unnecessary and containment of fluid is required.
Metaphorically, 'spooning' refers to a specific intimate posture of cuddling where two people lie facing the same direction. This shifts the connotation from utility to warmth and emotional closeness.
In modern slang (specifically within chronic illness communities), "spoons" represents a finite unit of daily energy. To "run out of spoons" means having no remaining mental or physical capacity to perform tasks.
Countable when referring to the individual eating utensils found in a kitchen drawer.
💬Casual Conversation
Are you serious? No clean spoons again. I'm out here struggling.
Are you serious? No clean spoons again. I'm out here struggling.
Skill issue, sis. Just use your hands.
Skill issue, sis. Just use your hands.
Meanings
Examples
Collocations & Compounds
teaspoon
A small spoon used for stirring tea or coffee, or for measuring small quantities of ingredients.
tablespoon
A larger spoon used for eating or serving food, or for measuring larger quantities of ingredients.
Measure out a tablespoon of olive oil.
soup spoon
A large spoon with a rounded bowl, used for eating soup.
serving spoon
A large spoon used for serving food from a communal dish.
Phrasal Verbs
Idioms & Sayings
born with a silver spoon in one's mouth
Born into a wealthy family and having wealth and privilege from birth.