Definition

Noun: A large, shallow container, typically rectangular and made of metal or plastic, used for washing dishes by hand.

Usage

• The dishpan was filled with soapy water and dirty plates.
• After dinner, she filled the dishpan to start washing the cups and glasses.
• A plastic dishpan is lighter than a metal one.

Advanced Usage

• "dishpan hands": A common idiom describing dry, red, or irritated skin on the hands, typically caused by frequent exposure to hot water and dish soap.
  • Wearing gloves while washing dishes can help prevent dishpan hands.

Variants and Related Words

• Sink: A fixed basin with a water supply and drainpipe. A dishpan is often used inside or instead of a sink.
• Basin: A more general term for a wide, open container for holding liquid. A dishpan is a type of basin.
• Tub: A broad, open container. While similar in shape, a tub is usually larger (e.g., bathtub, washtub).

Synonyms

• Washing pan
• Wash basin (specifically for dishes)

Related Phrases/Idioms

• Dishpan hands: (As described in Advanced Usage)

Noun

1. large pan for washing dishes