tea ball

noun

1. a small ball of perforated metal or other material in which tea leaves are placed to be immersed in hot water to make tea.

tea ball

noun

1. a perforated metal ball filled with tea leaves and put in boiling water to make tea

Word History and Origins

Origin of tea ball¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

A steaming pot of hot water was presently brought in and placed beside my plate, and the tea-ball was brought to me.

From Project Gutenberg

The tea ball, or the plan of tying the tea in small pieces of cheesecloth, is convenient for serving at an afternoon tea.

From Project Gutenberg

The dimples deepened playfully in her cheeks as she passed the tea-ball across the table.

From Project Gutenberg

The tea ball, which is in the little glass, is filled with tea and the boiling water is poured over it into each cup.

From Project Gutenberg

Gud sat down and the Clerical Collar poured him a cup of hot water, but neglected to pass him the tea ball.

From Project Gutenberg