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 Choosing the wrong type of detergent or putting too much soap into the dishwasher disrupts the cleaning cycle and over-suds the appliance. Kamron Sanders, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Oct. 2025 If time permits, disconnect utilities and appliances. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 8 Oct. 2025 Tech & Appliances With a silhouette that would blend as easily with a minimalist living room as a Scandinavian bedroom, Winmill’s smart air purifier feels more like a design object than a household appliance. Bailey Berg, Architectural Digest, 8 Oct. 2025 This powerhouse appliance does excellent work on both hard floors and carpets — easily picking up dirt, coffee grounds, dry cereal, and hair — and transitioning smoothly between surfaces. Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 7 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for appliance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for appliance
Noun
  • The platform has been heavily criticized over the last year by users who’ve said their smart home gadgets have been left to wither as Google moves away from Assistant and focuses on Gemini.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 8 Oct. 2025
  • Smart Home Products Upgrade your home with smart plugs, Wi-Fi extenders, and other gadgets that make daily life more convenient and connected.
    Nora Colomer may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 7 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Get Your Mariners Postseason Gear on Fanatics To celebrate this moment, Fanatics has dropped exclusive Mariners playoff gear with commemorative hats, t-shirts, jackets, and accessories.
    Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Oct. 2025
  • The creative, who helmed the Gaultier brand from 2021 to 2024, also heads up an eponymous jewelry business offering bag chains, charms and other accessories in Tétier’s playful, maximalist style — teddy bears, sculptural flowers and multipatterned strings often included.
    Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 11 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The department’s actions and policies reflect a disdain for public schools and a desire to dismantle that system in favor of a range of other options — private, Christian and virtual schools or homeschooling.
    Megan O’Matz, ProPublica, 8 Oct. 2025
  • Swipe on over to our coverage of the best tablet sales from Prime Big Deal Days for more options.
    Jade Chung-Lee, PC Magazine, 8 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Appliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/appliance. Accessed 13 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on appliance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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