cruet

noun

cru·​et ˈkrü-ət How to pronounce cruet (audio)
1
: a vessel to hold wine or water for the Eucharist
2
: a usually glass bottle used to hold a condiment (such as oil or vinegar) for use at the table

Examples of cruet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Don't let the smooth, shiny stainless steel fool you—the shape of this petite cruet allows for a firm grip. — Barbara Bellesi Zito, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 June 2023 This ceramic cruet is a charming upgrade for any culinary space. — Laura Lajiness Kaupke, Glamour, 17 Sep. 2024 Combine vinegar, oil, mustard and Worcestershire sauce with black pepper in a screw-top glass cruet and shake well. — Philip Potempa, Chicago Tribune, 17 Jan. 2025 Something cooking-adjacent, like olive oil presented in a ceramic cruet or gourmet sweet and sour candy, is always a safe idea. — Elly Leavitt, Vogue, 4 July 2025 This oil-and-vinegar cruet set works for both prep and serving and comes in a variety of colors to match your chef's other Le Creuset cookware. — Danny Perez, Popular Mechanics, 2 Nov. 2022 This kit also comes with a beautiful cruet made by Farmhouse Potter as well as a canister of Jacobsen’s salt and salt cellar waiting to house it. — Lia Picard, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Dec. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, diminutive of Old French crue, of Germanic origin; akin to Middle High German krūche pitcher — more at crock

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of cruet was in the 14th century

Rhymes for cruet

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Browse Nearby Words

cruentous
cruet
Cruikshank
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Cite this Entry

“Cruet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cruet. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cruet

noun
cru·​et ˈkrü-ət How to pronounce cruet (audio)
: a small glass bottle for holding vinegar, oil, or sauce for use at the table

More from Merriam-Webster on cruet

Nglish: Translation of cruet for Spanish Speakers

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