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
• gismo
• utensil
• contrivance
• gimmick
• invention
• implement
• ingenuity
• accessary
• trick
• adjunct
• doohickey
• hickey
• thingamajig
• thingamabob
• dingus
• hootenanny
• thingumajig
• 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
• adaptor
• adapter
• accessary
• appendage
• add-on
• equipment
• attachment
• additive
• adjunct
• accouterment
• accoutrement
• enhancement
• accompaniment
• furnishings
• subsidiary
• complement
• supplement
• filler
• auxiliary
• luxury
• ornament
• decoration
• appurtenances
• adornment
• incidental
• trappings
• trimming
• nonessential
• embroidery
• paraphernalia
• extra
• amenity
• 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

Check for dust on the top shelves of closets, ceiling fan blades, and behind appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers. —Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 21 Oct. 2025

For maximum effectiveness, gas detectors should be installed low to the ground near gas appliances, since most flammable gases are heavier than air. —Lauren Bengtson, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Oct. 2025

The tech company provides protection plans, tech support and repair services for smartphones, consumer electronics, appliances and home technologies. —Molly Davis, Nashville Tennessean, 21 Oct. 2025

Have the group do a little inventory of what appliances are available to lend to the gathering. —Editors Of Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 21 Oct. 2025