dustpan

American  

[duhst-pan] / ˈdʌstˌpæn /

noun

dustpans plural

1. a short-handled shovellike utensil into which dust is swept for removal.

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dustpan British  

/ ˈdʌstˌpæn /

noun

1. a short-handled hooded shovel into which dust is swept from floors, etc

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• dustpans
  plural

Etymology

Origin of dustpan

First recorded in 1775–85; dust + pan ¹

Example Sentences

That complaint alleged that a dining hall worker wearing gloves used a broom and dustpan to sweep and then made scrambled eggs with the same gloves on, according to the report.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 11, 2025

"A good lint brush can be great for removing pet fur and dander, too, and a dustpan and brush can come in handy for larger debris on sturdier fabric."

From Salon • Jul. 24, 2022

It was designed by artist Bartłomiej Kiełbowicz, who also has created fake labels people have been sticking on shelves inside Leroy Merlin stores, including one for a broom and dustpan “for sweeping away guilt.”

From Seattle Times • May 12, 2022

While the water runs, Rapinchuk recommends working the tips of the bristles into the soapy dustpan to remove excess dirt.

From Washington Post • Feb. 1, 2022

“I’m sure they will, Brady,” Dad replied as he dumped the contents of the dustpan into a big garbage can.

From "Red Kayak" by Priscilla Cummings