strainer

noun

strain·​er ˈstrā-nər How to pronounce strainer (audio)
: one that strains: such as
a
: a device (such as a sieve) to retain solid pieces while a liquid passes through
b
: any of various devices for stretching or tightening something

Examples of strainer 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.
With a slotted spoon or skimmer, remove the grapefruit sections to a strainer or colander and rinse under cold running water for 2 minutes. — Jeffrey Steingarten, Vogue, 25 Oct. 2026 Smart kitchen helpers for cooking and baking, including silicone baking mats, mini mitts, a multi-function spatula, collapsible strainer, Fill-A-Baster and more. — ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026 The mainline handwash sink was being used to hold a strainer and utensils, and the bar handwash sink was being used to dump frozen drinks in, according to the inspector. — Joseph Hernandez, Kansas City Star, 22 Oct. 2026 Drain the puree in cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer before using it in pies or baked goods. — Lauren Schuster, Sacbee.com, 21 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for strainer

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Rhymes for strainer

See All Rhymes for strainer

Browse Nearby Words

strained
strainer
strain gage
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Strainer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/strainer. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

strainer

noun
strain·​er ˈstrā-nər How to pronounce strainer (audio)
: one that strains
especially : a device (as a screen or filter) to hold solid pieces while a liquid passes through

Medical Definition

strainer

noun
strain·​er ˈstrā-nər How to pronounce strainer (audio)
: a device (as a sieve) to retain solid pieces while a liquid passes through
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