Synonym Chooser

How is the word appliance different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of appliance are implement, instrument, tool, and utensil. While all these words mean "a relatively simple device for performing work," appliance refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment.

household appliances

When is implement a more appropriate choice than appliance?

In some situations, the words implement and appliance are roughly equivalent. However, implement may apply to anything necessary to perform a task.

crude stone implements
farm implements

When can instrument be used instead of appliance?

Although the words instrument and appliance have much in common, instrument suggests a device capable of delicate or precise work.

the dentist's instruments

How do tool and implement relate to one another, in the sense of appliance?

Tool suggests an implement adapted to facilitate a definite kind or stage of work and suggests the need of skill more strongly than implement.

a carpenter's tools

When would utensil be a good substitute for appliance?

While the synonyms utensil and appliance are close in meaning, utensil applies to a device used in domestic work or some routine unskilled activity.

kitchen utensils

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of appliance As a result, soaring prices have encouraged Californians to keep their ICE cars and natural-gas appliances. The Editorial Board, Orange County Register, 14 Feb. 2025 Plus, shop bedding and mattress deals, furniture and outdoor deals, and kitchen and appliance deals for up to 53 percent off while these Amazon discounts last. Madison Yauger, People.com, 12 Feb. 2025 These appliances help reduce the risk of detachment and leakage if the bag gets overly full. Jamin Brahmbhatt, Verywell Health, 12 Feb. 2025 Best Amazon Presidents Day Sales on Home and Kitchen Items Give your home a fresh look ahead of spring, or upgrade your favorite kitchen appliances during the Amazon Presidents Day sale. Katrina Cossey, Parents, 11 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for appliance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for appliance
Noun
  • Compared to the other types of gadgets vying to be the intermediary in our buying process, Alexa+ has serious disadvantages.
    Ars Technica, Ars Technica, 26 Feb. 2025
  • Rather than having to design a vehicle or device around a battery brick, builders could theoretically structure the battery to fit into the optimal space in the vehicle or gadget.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 25 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Soleil’s pouches and travel cases are ideal for storing toiletries, cosmetics and travel accessories to keep you organised when away from home.
    Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025
  • The Cup Craze As greens powders and electrolytes became the daily norm, water bottles quickly became an accessory rather than a necessity.
    Emily Burns, WWD, 21 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Buk Clinic Another leading option located in Istanbul, Buk Clinic provides patients with exceptional care through minimally invasive techniques.
    Ethan Stone, USA TODAY, 22 Feb. 2025
  • Almost everyone has had the experience of propping up their phone while cooking and trying to follow a recipe, so Apple designed recipe functionality that allows for users to search by ingredient, by length of time to complete the meal, simplicity, type of cuisine, and a slew of other options.
    Alex Weprin, The Hollywood Reporter, 21 Feb. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Appliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/appliance. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on appliance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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