utensil

noun

uten·​sil yu̇-ˈten(t)-səl 

ˈyü-ˌten(t)-

1

: an implement, instrument, or vessel used in a household and especially a kitchen

2

: a useful tool or implement

Synonyms of utensil

• tool
• device
• instrument

Choose the Right Synonym for utensil

implement, tool, instrument, appliance, utensil mean a relatively simple device for performing work.

implement may apply to anything necessary to perform a task.

crude stone implements

farm implements

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

instrument suggests a device capable of delicate or precise work.

the dentist's instruments

appliance refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment.

household appliances

utensil applies to a device used in domestic work or some routine unskilled activity.

kitchen utensils

Examples of utensil in a Sentence

participants in the class must supply their own writing utensils

Recent Examples on the Web

Clean kitchen counter tops, cutting boards and utensils with hot, soapy water. — Sundi Rose, Idaho Statesman, 16 July 2026

Meanwhile, health officials urge people to take precautions, like thoroughly washing produce, kitchen prep tools and utensils, and cooking fruits and vegetables when possible. — Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE, 14 July 2026

There are plenty of great deals to snag, including this durable soft cooler at 50% off, a pack-and-carry fireplace at 30% off, and all kinds of outdoor kitchen utensils marked down, like this Nylon spatula, which is only $23. — Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 July 2026

Clean and sanitize utensils and food-prep surfaces before and after use. — Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 10 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, vessels for domestic use, from Middle French utensile, from Latin utensilia, from neuter plural of utensilis useful, from uti to use

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for utensil

• commensal
• prehensile
• intercensal
• pencil
• stencil
• tensile

Kids Definition

utensil

noun

uten·​sil yu̇-ˈten(t)-səl 

1

: a device or container used in a household and especially a kitchen

2

: an article serving a useful purpose

writing utensils