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 Best Home and Kitchen Amazon Prime Day Deals Shop cleaners, cookware, small appliances, and other home must-haves, including the Blink Outdoor 4. Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 July 2025 Of course, some of the best Amazon Prime Day deals are on kitchen appliances. Malia Griggs, Glamour, 11 July 2025 Schrader says his key areas of focus to clean monthly on these appliances are the detergent drawer and the gasket. Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 11 July 2025 Cookware and kitchen appliances are on sale in spades for Prime Day 2025. Clara McMahon, People.com, 10 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for appliance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for appliance
Noun
  • Shoppers are going after clever cleaning gadgets like the Bissell Little Green Carpet Cleaner, which also works on upholstered furniture, as well as the Swiffer PowerMop to make hard floors shine.
    Clara McMahon, People.com, 9 July 2025
  • Certainly, every electronic gadget in your home and car contains copper.
    Jim Edwards, Fortune, 9 July 2025
Noun
  • Rounding off the Relay’s talents is a range of accessories, including a usefully short 6cm USB-C-to-USB-C cable, a microfiber cleaning cloth, plus a black cushioned Ripstop bag.
    Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • Investing in durability ensures your bag lasts longer and keeps your equipment safe. Consider bags with dedicated compartments for rackets, shoes (ideally a ventilated pocket), apparel, water bottles, balls, and smaller accessories like keys, phone, and grips.
    Will Porter, Travel + Leisure, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • While opting for the white colorway will offer coastal appeal, like the brand’s Loire headboard, this one has tons of fabric options to personalize its design to match your aesthetic.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 14 July 2025
  • Wayfair’s selection is packed with options such as this free-standing bathroom cabinet that offers a variety of organization options.
    Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 14 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Appliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/appliance. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on appliance

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