Definition

The quantity of something that can fit in a tablespoon, often used for measuring ingredients in cooking.

Example

She added a tablespoonful of sugar to the recipe.

Conversation

How much sugar do you usually add to your coffee?

I usually put in a tablespoonful, just enough to sweeten it.

That sounds good! I might try a tablespoonful too next time.

Yeah, it really makes a difference in flavor.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tablespoonful → It is formed from "tablespoon" (a compound of "table" from Old French *table*, meaning a flat surface for eating, and "spoon" from Old English *spōn*, meaning a utensil for eating) and "-ful" (meaning full of). The word "tablespoonful" refers to the amount that a tablespoon can hold, or full of a tablespoon.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'table' where you eat and a 'spoon' used for eating, combined with '-ful' meaning full. This helps you remember that a tablespoonful is the amount that fills a tablespoon.

Visually Confused Words