A little bit of Ancient History - about kettles of course. (2024)

April 24, 2018

Kettles have been with us for thousands of years.

The kettle as we know it has evolved over time from the basic open pans that were used over open fires to heat water, to the elegant lidded and spouted versions that grace our kitchens today. The kettle is now the most popular kitchen appliance.

In ancient times around 3500 B.C. in Mesopotamia, kettles very similar to today’s modern design were made from iron and bronze. Bronze kettles are evidenced as being used to boil water for medicinal purposes. A translation from a cuniform tablet in states that “You shall bring it to a boil in a bronze kettle and (filter) it.” [Attia, Anna et al, Advances in Mesopotamian Medicine from Hammurabi to Hippocrates, 2009, Leiden.]

Interestingly the Romans used bronze pots with lids to boil water. (Image from University of Chicago.)



A little bit of Ancient History - about kettles of course. (2024)

FAQs

What is the history of the old kettle? ›

The kettle is now the most popular kitchen appliance. In ancient times around 3500 B.C. in Mesopotamia, kettles very similar to today's modern design were made from iron and bronze. Bronze kettles are evidenced as being used to boil water for medicinal purposes.

What is the old name for kettle? ›

Through repeated invasions of Britain by Norsem*n from Scandinavia, the English language was strongly influenced by Old Norse. In Middle English, a 'kettle' or 'cauldron' was ketill.

What is the significance of the kettle? ›

The concept of a container specifically designed for boiling water can be traced to ancient civilizations such as the Mesopotamians and Egyptians. These early kettles were often made from materials like clay or metal and played a vital role in daily life for cooking, hygiene, and medicinal purposes.

Why are kettles called kettles? ›

Etymology. The word kettle originates from Old Norse ketill "cauldron".

What is the old saying about the kettle? ›

"The pot calling the kettle black" is a proverbial idiom that may be of Spanish origin, of which English versions began to appear in the first half of the 17th century.

Who invented kettles? ›

Although he may not have been first, Arthur Leslie Large is credited with inventing the electric kettle.

What does a kettle mean in the Bible? ›

Easton's Bible Dictionary - Kettle

a large pot for cooking. The same Hebrew word (dud, "boiling") is rendered also "pot" ( Psalms 81:6 ), "caldron" ( 2 Chronicles 35:13 ), "basket" ( Jeremiah 24:2 ). It was used for preparing the peace-offerings ( 1 Samuel 2:13 1 Samuel 2:14 ).

What is the full meaning of kettle? ›

a metal container in which to boil liquids, cook foods, etc.; pot. a teakettle. a kettledrum. Geology. kettle hole.

What does wearing a kettle mean? ›

“Kettle and Hob is co*ckney slang for Watch. "Nice new Kettle you're wearing mate." Kettle and Hob means Fob (Watch) Perhaps the most confusing of all rhyming slang expression, because the derivation of Kettle from the word "watch" is unclear - until you know a little bit about the history of watches that is.”

What is the proverb about the kettle? ›

The pot calling the kettle black” is a widely known proverb in the English language, originating from Spanish. The meaning of this saying depicts a timeless illustration of human hypocrisy and double standards that is still relevant today.

What is kettle slang for? ›

(slang) A watch. co*ckney rhyming slang from 'kettle and hob' to 'fob' (fob watch)

What do Americans call a kettle? ›

Many people in the US might use the word "kettle" for a pan, especially a very large one, which would more properly be a "pot" The primary use of mine is heating water for my pour-over coffee carafe.

What is an interesting fact about the kettle? ›

It comes from the Latin word catillus ("deep pan or dish for cooking"). In the past, kettles were made of metal bins like copper. Kettles were put on a rack or a hook above the fire to become hot. Now, metal kettles are put on the stove or rangetop.

What is the history of the spirit kettle? ›

A Brief History of the Spirit Kettle

It gained popularity among the European aristocracy as a symbol of refinement and luxury. The invention of the spirit kettle was a response to the growing popularity of tea, coffee, and hot chocolate, which required a constant supply of hot water for brewing.

How has the kettle changed over time? ›

For many years the kettle reminded the same, made of iron but it's aesthetical properties changed and the ergonomics improved over time. The Crompton and Co in the UK started featuring the electric kettle, the idea of heating the kettle from within was great but there had problems that were not solved until, in 1922.

What material was the old kettle? ›

The kettles that existed at that time were made from materials that conducted heat quickly such as copper. The Chinese used porcelain to make kettles, tea cups, and pots. Kettles became an essential kitchen appliance and was traded in large volumes.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Corie Satterfield

Last Updated:

Views: 5578

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (62 voted)

Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Corie Satterfield

Birthday: 1992-08-19

Address: 850 Benjamin Bridge, Dickinsonchester, CO 68572-0542

Phone: +26813599986666

Job: Sales Manager

Hobby: Table tennis, Soapmaking, Flower arranging, amateur radio, Rock climbing, scrapbook, Horseback riding

Introduction: My name is Corie Satterfield, I am a fancy, perfect, spotless, quaint, fantastic, funny, lucky person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.