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 These include shippers, carriers, freight forwarders, third-party logistic (3PL) delivery providers and businesses involved in auto parts, furniture, appliance and retail and e-commerce delivery. Andre Claudio, Sourcing Journal, 21 May 2025 Nab expensive appliances, like refrigerators, air conditioners, and washing machines, for less at Best Buy, and pick up home and outdoor furniture for up to 70 percent off at Wayfair. Averi Baudler, People.com, 20 May 2025 Take more time to research and comparison shop, including researching import content for potential large purchases like appliances and cars. Susan Tompor, USA Today, 20 May 2025 For households seeking more cooling options, the lineup at Della home appliance also includes window AC units, portable ACs, central air systems, and a new tower fan set to launch in May. Jon Stojan, USA Today, 13 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for appliance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for appliance
Noun
  • The deal brings OpenAI into the world of hardware, and underscores the growing sense in Silicon Valley that smart AI assistants could upend the gadget world.
    Yeo Boon Ping, CNBC, 22 May 2025
  • In addition to air conditioners, other gadgets can efficiently keep a home cool.
    Khanh T.L. Tran, USA Today, 20 May 2025
Noun
  • In addition to swimsuits, the campaign also touts the Louis Vuitton × Murakami bags, travel accessories, jewelry and shoes.
    Michelle Lee, People.com, 16 May 2025
  • Speaking of moments, she was photographed outside the Magnum Cannes party with a new accessory — what else? — a Magnum ice cream bar.
    Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 16 May 2025
Noun
  • The Environmental Working Group’s Healthy Living app is another option.
    Kaitlin Sullivan, Health, 17 May 2025
  • Death by a firing squad is an option in Idaho, although the state hasn’t carried out an execution since 2012.
    Jorge L. Ortiz, USA Today, 17 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Appliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/appliance. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on appliance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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