What is tongue depressor?

A tongue depressor is a small, flat wooden or plastic stick used by medical professionals to hold down the tongue during a physical examination of the mouth and throat. The depressor allows the doctor or nurse to get a clear view of the back of the throat and examine the tonsils and other structures in the mouth.

Tongue depressors are typically disposable and are used only once to prevent the spread of infection. They are often made of birch wood or plastic and are usually about six inches long and one inch wide.

In addition to medical use, tongue depressors are also commonly used for arts and crafts projects, as stirring sticks for paint or glue, and for various other household purposes.