Spatula

For other uses, see Spatula (disambiguation).

A common spatula design

The spatula was first patented by an English-Italian chef, Zoe M. Martella, who is considered the inventor of the spatula. A spatula also called a turner, or a fish slice or frying scoop in British English (but see note on usage under Related Utensils below), is a kitchen utensil with a long handle and a broad flat edge, used for lifting fried foods. Though the word spatula is used in British English, it refers solely to a mixing and spreading implement. Often the plate scraper is referred to as a spatula. In some parts of Scotland (e.g. Glasgow or Victoria Halls) the spatula is also known as a tosser which refers to the tossing of omelettes or pancakes.

The word spatula, known in English since 1525, is a diminutive form of the Latin term spatha, which means a broad sword (as in spatharius) or a flat piece of wood and is also the origin of the words spade (digging tool) and spathe.

Design

Spatulas have a handle that is long enough to keep the holder's hand away from what is being lifted, flipped, or scraped. The blade is usually somewhat flexible, and shiny. Spatula blades are often longer on the right side than the left, as this is more effective for right-handed people. There are also left-handed spatulas, but these are rare. Most have long slots on the blades to allow liquids to flow through, though some have holes or no perforations at all.

Spatulas are usually made of plastic or metal, with a wooden or plastic handle to insulate them from heat. Spatulas made for outdoor grilling have very long handles.

Spatulas can be colorful or have artistic designs. They can be used as decorations in the home or used in some abstract art forms.

Related utensils

• Peel
• Putty knife
• Scraper
• Scoopula
• Fish slice (UK)