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

Examples 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 In the kitchen, a pull-out pantry and breakfast shelving create a practical, easy-access space for food and appliances, while a multipurpose desk/island/console provides an ideal workspace for two, as well as serving as a sturdy, practical surface for unloading groceries and other items. Valentina Raggi, Architectural Digest, 21 Dec. 2024 Have your heating system, water heater, and other gas-, oil- or coal-powered appliances are serviced yearly by technicians. Kayla Jimenez, USA TODAY, 19 Dec. 2024 Instructions and locations for fire extinguishers, thermostats, the home security system (including how to contact the monitoring company), circuit breakers, appliances, and the water main valve. Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Dec. 2024 Our Place Wonder Oven $195 $175 Amazon Sometimes kitchen appliances can be an eyesore, but that’s not the case with Our Place’s toaster oven. Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 12 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for appliance 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for appliance
Noun
  • Hackers use a variety of methods to turn your gadgets into botnet zombies.
    Alex Vakulov, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024
  • Watch Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas on Disney+ 8-Bit Christmas If the latest and greatest game or gadget tops your child's wish list, then 8-Bit Christmas (2021) is the film for you!
    Skyler Caruso, People.com, 21 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • The greatness of her accessory boils down to its size, which wasn’t as Mary Poppins-esque as a tote bag or as squished as a tiny wallet purse.
    Alyssa Grabinski, People.com, 17 Dec. 2024
  • Party on Top, Sleek on the Bottom Let this stunning Ulla Johnson tank be the star of the show by pairing it will a full midi skirt and festive, but not fussy, accessories.
    Christina Holevas, Vogue, 17 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • How to Enable a VPN Kill Switch The kill switch option in Proton VPN.
    David Nield, WIRED, 17 Dec. 2024
  • This significant performance gap between the two drivers has prompted Red Bull to consider alternative options for their driver lineup.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 17 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near appliance

Cite this Entry

“Appliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/appliance. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on appliance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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