# saucepan

/ˈsɔˌspæn/ (US) · /sˈɔːspən/ (UK) · CEFR A2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/saucepan
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

a deep metal pot with a long handle and a lid. You use it on a stove for boiling water or cooking liquid foods like soup and pasta.

For teachers: a deep, circular metal cooking vessel with a long handle and usually a lid, designed for boiling or simmering liquids on a stovetop.

## Examples

- He filled the saucepan with water to boil some eggs.
- After the milk begins to simmer in the saucepan, whisk in the flour slowly to avoid creating lumps in the sauce.
- The chef selected a heavy-bottomed stainless steel saucepan to ensure even heat distribution, preventing the delicate cream base from scorching during the reduction process.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used with verbs like 'simmer', 'boil', or 'whisk'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.