A blender is a kitchen appliance that spins sharp blades at high speed to chop, mix, or puree food and liquids. When you drop strawberries, yogurt, and ice into a blender and press the button, those spinning blades transform solid ingredients into a smooth drink in seconds.

Blenders work through sheer speed: the blades can spin thousands of times per minute, pulverizing whatever's inside. This makes them perfect for smoothies, soups, sauces, and milkshakes. Some powerful blenders can even crush ice into snow or grind nuts into butter. The blender's container, usually made of glass or plastic, sits on a motorized base that powers the blades.

The blender was invented in 1922 by Stephen Poplawski, who wanted an easier way to mix drinks at soda fountains. Within decades, blenders became common in American kitchens. Today, people use them for everything from breakfast smoothies to homemade salsa.