Word
spoons
US/ˈspunz/
UK/spˈuːnz/
Definition
n. the amount of energy you have to get through the day. People with chronic illnesses use this to explain how much effort simple tasks take.
n. a metaphorical unit of measurement representing the finite amount of mental or physical energy available for daily activities. Often used within the chronic illness and neurodivergent communities to describe energy management.
Examples
“I don't have enough spoons to go out tonight.”
“After a long day of meetings, I used up all my spoons and just needed to sit in a quiet room.”
“The theory suggests that while healthy individuals have an effectively unlimited supply of energy, those with chronic conditions must carefully budget their spoons to avoid total physical exhaustion.”
Examples
simple
“I don't have enough spoons to go out tonight.”
contextual
“After a long day of meetings, I used up all my spoons and just needed to sit in a quiet room.”
complex
“The theory suggests that while healthy individuals have an effectively unlimited supply of energy, those with chronic conditions must carefully budget their spoons to avoid total physical exhaustion.”
Usage
Usually used in the plural; frequently appears in the phrase 'to have enough spoons' or 'to run out of spoons'.
Real-World Examples
“Carpets, washing machines, furniture, fridges and even knives, forks and spoons are set to have tariffs applied by Canada.” “Could you grab six spoons from the silverware drawer?” Scan code
englishreference.com/q/spoons