implement 1 of 2

implement

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noun

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of implement are appliance, instrument, tool, and utensil. While all these words mean "a relatively simple device for performing work," implement may apply to anything necessary to perform a task.

crude stone implements
farm implements

When can appliance be used instead of implement?

The meanings of appliance and implement largely overlap; however, appliance refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment.

household appliances

When is it sensible to use instrument instead of implement?

The words instrument and implement can be used in similar contexts, but instrument suggests a device capable of delicate or precise work.

the dentist's instruments

How are the words tool and implement related?

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 could utensil be used to replace implement?

Although the words utensil and implement have much in common, 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 implement
Verb
The foundation has already implemented some of the report recommendations, including case tracking of incidents and better bystander intervention training. Elizabeth Howell, Space.com, 27 Aug. 2025 The repatriation of the skulls to the island nation off the southeastern coast of Africa marks the first time France has implemented a 2023 law enabling the return of human remains to a country for funeral purposes. Amarachi Orie, CNN Money, 27 Aug. 2025
Noun
The digging sticks, curved root-slicers, and a handful of somewhat puzzling implements were all found at a lakeshore site called Gantangqing. ArsTechnica, 7 July 2025 The men then stabbed the attacker multiple times in the body with his own implement. William Lee, Chicago Tribune, 18 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for implement
Recent Examples of Synonyms for implement
Verb
  • On the hiring front, the money was intended for 10,000 new staff who specifically enforce immigration law within the United States.
    Anna Giaritelli, The Washington Examiner, 23 Aug. 2025
  • Earlier in May, the agency began enforcing REAL ID at checkpoints, achieving a 94 percent compliance rate and helping to speed up the security screening process.
    Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • The divers concluded that without specialized marine salvage tools, like underwater arc cutting equipment that requires additional skills and training to operate, the likelihood of getting inside the ship was remote.
    Frank Witsil, Freep.com, 25 Aug. 2025
  • Still, recent Consumer Price Index inflation reports reveal increases in the cost of certain imports the United States relies on heavily, including household furnishings, linens, tools, toys and sporting goods.
    Alicia Wallace, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • The device offers a low-noise design and adjustable suction levels for anxious pets.
    Jessie Quinn, USA Today, 1 Sep. 2025
  • The framing device feels a bit contrived, but the scenes between Dano and Wright are good enough to keep us interested.
    Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 31 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Implement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/implement. Accessed 3 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on implement

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