Definition

A kitchen tool that is shaped like a bowl and has holes in it, used for draining liquids from food like pasta or washing fruits and vegetables.

Example

After boiling the pasta, I used a colander to drain the water.

Conversation

Do you have a colander I can borrow for dinner tonight?

Sure! I use it all the time for pasta.

Great! I need it to rinse some vegetables too.

No problem, just make sure to wash it after you’re done.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Colander → The word 'colander' comes from the Latin 'colandum', which is derived from 'colare' (meaning to strain or filter). The suffix '-er' indicates an object that performs a function. Thus, a colander is an object used for straining or filtering liquids from solids.

Memory Tip

Think of 'straining' ('colare') as the main action of a colander — it helps you remember that a colander is used to filter out liquids.

Visually Confused Words