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 Metal coffee mug trees blend well with stainless steel appliances, while wooden trees complement cabinetry of the same finish. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 15 Oct. 2025 If time permits, lock your home upon departure and disconnect utilities and appliances. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 14 Oct. 2025 According to Redseer Strategy Consultants, India's electronics and appliances market is projected to almost double from about $75 billion in 2024 to roughly $130 billion to $150 billion by 2029. Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 14 Oct. 2025 Small appliances might break down or unexpected company might appear at the door. Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 14 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for appliance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for appliance
Noun
  • Reports of early concepts include a screenless, wearable device that uses voice input and subtle haptics, envisioned more as an ambient companion than a traditional gadget.
    MacKenzie Sigalos, CNBC, 14 Oct. 2025
  • Check that all your kitchen appliances and gadgets work properly and are used regularly.
    Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 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
  • New York felt comfortable enough to pick up Thibodeaux’s fifth-year option, but keeping him around in the long term with Abdul Carter and Brian Burns probably isn’t the shrewdest.
    Michael Gallagher, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Oct. 2025
  • Avoid overly salty or processed options.
    Brittany Poulson, Verywell Health, 14 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Appliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/appliance. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on appliance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!