n.
- a metal or plastic container with a lid, spout, and handle, used for boiling water.
- a container in which operations are carried out on metals or other substances with a low melting point.
Phrase
- a different kettle of fish
informal a person or matter that is altogether different from the one just mentioned. - a pretty
(or fine)
kettle of fish
informal an awkward state of affairs.
Etymology
OE cetel, cietel, of Gmc origin, based on L. catillus, dimin. of catinus ‘deep container for cooking or serving food’.
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