Synonyms of appliance

appliance

noun

ə-ˈplī-ən(t)s 

1

as in gadget

an interesting and often novel device with a practical use

since the invention of the cork, all manner of appliances have been invented for the extraction of these sometimes troublesome stoppers

Synonyms & Similar Words

• gadget
• tool
• accessory
• gizmo
• contraption
• mechanism
• innovation
• widget
• instrument
• jigger
• utensil
• contrivance
• gimmick
• implement
• invention
• ingenuity
• trick
• adjunct
• doohickey
• hickey
• thingamajig
• thingamabob
• dingus
• hootenanny
• thingummy
• doodad

2

as in accessory

something that is not necessary in itself but adds to the convenience or performance of the main piece of equipment

an appliance that allows the machine to be used as a sander

Synonyms & Similar Words

• accessory
• option
• adapter
• appendage
• add-on
• attachment
• equipment
• adjunct
• additive
• accoutrement
• accompaniment
• furnishings
• enhancement
• amenity
• subsidiary
• complement
• filler
• auxiliary
• supplement
• luxury
• ornament
• appurtenances
• decoration
• adornment
• incidental
• trappings
• trimming
• nonessential
• paraphernalia
• embroidery
• extra
• garnish
• nonnecessity
• trim
• frill
• habiliment(s)
• bells and whistles
• embellishment
• doodad

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• essential
• requirement
• necessity
• requisite

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

Recent Examples of appliance

Crocker said the district renovated six school kitchens over the summer, installing new flooring, upgraded equipment and commercial appliances that allow staff to prepare fresher meals on campus. — Darrielle Fair, CBS News, 5 Aug. 2026

The hotel also emphasizes a repair-don’t-replace ethos with building appliances, and uses refillable bottles for all of its toiletries. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026

This also is validated by retail trends that show demands on electric appliances are strong and growing stronger. — Jennifer Castenson, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Oral appliances that pull the jaw forward are another option. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 4 Aug. 2026