Definition

• Merriam-Webster defines a pot as “a usually rounded metal or earthen container used chiefly for domestic purposes (as in cooking).” On the other hand, a pan is defined by the website as “a usually broad, shallow, and open container for domestic use (as for cooking).”

Shape

• Both are typically round in shape, as Merriam-Webster notes. However, a pan, as the definition stated, will likely be shallow. Usually, it’s no more than a couple of inches deep. A pot, however, can be quite deep. Think of a stock pot, which is often more than a foot tall.

Size

• While pots are generally larger simply because they are deeper, and so require more material, both pots and pans can come in many sizes. A pan can be very shallow and very small in diameter, or very wide in diameter and up to a few inches in height. The tallest pans are usually work pans, which can rise 5 or 6 inches. The outwardly angled sides tell you it’s a pan and not a pot, because pots never go up at an angle. Meanwhile, a pot can small enough to hold just a few cups of liquid, or as big enough to hold gallons.

Use

• A pot is often used to cook down and boil liquids. Because of its depth, liquids can bubble without splashing out of the pot and all over your stove. Pots also distribute heat better than pans, so they're often used to prepare meals that must be cooked for long periods of time at low to moderate heat. Pots often come with lids, which make them useful for steaming and preventing moisture from escaping. A pan cooks foods that need quick, intense heat. Pan frying or pancake making are well-suited to a pan. While pans sometimes come with lids, this isn't as common as with pots.

Confusion

• A pot is sometimes referred to as a pan. For instance, when a person says “sauce pan,” she usually means a pot. If you’re unsure whether a particular cooking vessel is a pot or a pan (consider a very shallow pot or a very deep pan), look at whether there are extra attachments that came with the cookware. If it came with a steaming or double boiling attachment, you’re looking at a pot.