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

Instead, juices that splash during washing can transfer bacteria onto the surfaces of your kitchen, other foods and utensils. —Aliss Higham, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2025

Becnel also notes that people who have plastic utensils should always place them on the top rack, near the front of the dishwasher. —Lauren Wicks, Southern Living, 24 Nov. 2025

Store spare glasses, napkins, trivets, and utensils in its concealer lower shelves; your decanter, bar tools, and jarred cocktail add-ins will fit perfectly on the top shelf, which features a pull-out door that doubles as extra table space. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Nov. 2025

The project’s goal is to help individuals prepare nutritious meals at home by supplying essentials such as pots and pans, dishes and utensils. —Debra Skodack, Kansas City Star, 19 Nov. 2025

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