Definition

A large, flat container used for washing dishes and utensils.

Example

After dinner, I filled the dishpan with soapy water to clean the plates.

Conversation

Do you know where I left the dishpan from last night?

I think I saw it in the kitchen near the sink.

Thanks! I need it to wash some dishes this afternoon.

No problem! Just let me know if you want help.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dishpan is formed from "dish" (from Old English "disc", meaning a plate or dish) and "pan" (from Old English "panna", meaning a shallow container). The word "dishpan" refers to a shallow container used for washing dishes.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'dish' as a plate and a 'pan' as a shallow container — together, a dishpan is a container specifically for washing dishes.

Visually Confused Words