What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spatulous
Example
The spatulous end of the spoon made it easy to spread the icing. [spatulous: adjective]
Example
The spatulous petals of the flower gave it a unique appearance. [spatulous: adjective]
spatulate
Example
The spatulate end of the knife made it easy to spread the butter. [spatulate: adjective]
Example
The spatulate leaves of the plant helped it absorb more sunlight. [spatulate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spatulate is more commonly used than spatulous in botanical contexts, while spatulous is more commonly used in medical or anatomical contexts. Both words are less common in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between spatulous and spatulate?
Both spatulate and spatulous are formal words that are typically used in technical or specialized contexts, such as science, medicine, or botany.
