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

Examples of appliance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Photo by Zee Wendell; Styling by Allison Clouser The kitchen was moved and enlarged to accommodate new appliances and a large island (perfect for entertaining and counter dining). Sarah Yang, Sunset Magazine, 23 Oct. 2024 Then there’s the kitchen appliances, some of which have touch screens on them. Scott Kramer, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024 The company, said government subsidies and platform benefits contributed to a more than seven-fold surge in pre-sales of home appliances during the first hour of its annual Singles Day shopping festival that kicked of Oct. 14. Evelyn Cheng, CNBC, 20 Oct. 2024 Home appliances, integrated circuits and ships were among the categories that posted export growth. Evelyn Cheng, CNBC, 14 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for appliance 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'appliance.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near appliance

Cite this Entry

“Appliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/appliance. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on appliance

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