WordGarden.iodustpan
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /dˈʌstpæn/
US
- /dˈʌstpæn/
Meanings
Noun
a shallow pan used for collecting dirt swept from the floor
Beyond the definition
Imagine you've just swept up a pile of crumbs after baking cookies—where do they go? Into a dustpan! A dustpan is that handy, scoop-shaped tool you use with a broom to gather up dirt, dust, and debris from the floor. It's like a little waiting room for all the mess before it goes into the trash.
Dustpans aren't fancy—they're usually made of plastic or metal—but they are essential for keeping your floors clean. You might see them in kitchens, hallways, garages… anywhere you need to sweep! Sometimes dustpans have a thin lip that fits snugly against the floor, making it easier to get all the dirt inside. Think of it as the broom's best friend; one sweeps, and the other collects.
A dustpan is a handheld tool designed to scoop up debris swept from floors, sidewalks, or other surfaces. It is almost always used in conjunction with a broom; together, they are a classic cleaning duo! While seemingly simple, the dustpan has evolved over time. Early versions were often made of wood or metal and were quite basic. Modern dustpans are typically crafted from plastic, offering durability, lightweight handling, and ease of cleaning.
The design is usually a shallow, wide scoop with a handle for easy gripping. Some dustpans feature a flexible rubber lip that creates a tight seal against the floor, preventing fine dust and dirt from escaping underneath while you sweep. Others include built-in teeth to help comb hair and debris out of the broom's bristles or reinforced ridges to help scrape up stubborn messes.
You'll find dustpans in homes, schools, offices, and workshops—anywhere cleanliness is valued. They aren't just for everyday crumbs, either! Dustpans are useful after DIY projects, gardening, or any activity that creates a localized mess.
The phrase "sweep it under the rug" implies avoiding dealing with a problem, while using a dustpan and broom means actively tackling it—a much more productive approach! So next time you see one leaning against a wall, remember it's not just a tool; it's a symbol of tidiness and taking care of your space.
Examples
- 1
Kitchen cleanup
Sweep the crumbs into a dustpan and throw them away.
- 2
Household tools
There’s a dustpan and brush under the sink if you need to clean that up.
- 3
Cleaning work
The cleaner brought out several dustpans after the plant pots fell over.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- dustpannoun