Definition

A small container used to hold salt, which has holes in the top so that you can sprinkle the salt onto your food.

Example

Please pass me the saltshaker so I can add some salt to my meal.

Conversation

Hey, do you know where the saltshaker is?

I think it's on the dining table, but I can check.

Thanks! I just want to add a little flavor to my meal.

No problem, let me grab it for you.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Saltshaker → The word is formed from "salt" (from Old English *sealt*, meaning a mineral used for seasoning) and "shaker" (from the verb "shake", meaning to move back and forth). A saltshaker is a container that shakes or dispenses salt.

Memory Tip

Think of a container that 'shakes' ('shaker') 'salt' — that's what a saltshaker does.

Visually Confused Words