n. 1. A small implement having a straight handle and a broad, flexible blade that is used to mix or spread semiliquid substances: used a spatula to apply the joint compound. 2. A small implement having an angled handle and a broad, flat blade that is used in cooking or serving food: flipped the pancakes with a spatula. 3. Chiefly British A tongue depressor. [Latin, flat piece of wood, splint, diminutive of spatha, broadsword; see SPATHE.] spatu·lar adj. |
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