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colander vs. strainer

colander vs. strainer: What's the difference?

Colander refers to a type of strainer. A strainer is any kitchen tool, typically with small mesh holes, that can filter, strain, or sift one thing from another. Colander refers to a large metal or plastic bowl with a perforated bottom, most frequently used for draining water away from produce, pasta, and other similarly-sized items.

colander

[ kuhl-uhn-der, kol- ]
noun
  1. a metal or plastic container with a perforated bottom, for draining and straining foods.

strainer

[ strey-ner ]
noun
  1. a person or thing that strains.
  2. a filter, sieve, or the like for straining liquids.
  3. a stretcher or tightener.