implement 1 of 2

Definition of implementnext

implement

2 of 2

noun

Synonym Chooser

How is the word implement different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of implement are appliance, instrument, tool, and utensil. While all these words mean "a relatively simple device for performing work," implement may apply to anything necessary to perform a task.

crude stone implements
farm implements

When can appliance be used instead of implement?

The meanings of appliance and implement largely overlap; however, appliance refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment.

household appliances

When is it sensible to use instrument instead of implement?

The words instrument and implement can be used in similar contexts, but instrument suggests a device capable of delicate or precise work.

the dentist's instruments

How are the words tool and implement related?

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 could utensil be used to replace implement?

Although the words utensil and implement have much in common, 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 implement
Verb
Like the Lines family’s lawsuit, Dean’s argues that that the county was well aware of problems with medical and mental health care in its jails, yet county leaders have failed to implement meaningful reforms or hold employees accountable. Kelly Davis, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Jan. 2026 There are concerns and confusion about which communities the law will apply to and how it would be implemented. Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 7 Jan. 2026
Noun
Nip that sentiment in the bud by taking them out the following August for a few days of hauling fertilizer, picking rocks, wrestling farm implements, and driving tractors over unseen wasp nests. The Editors, Outdoor Life, 30 Oct. 2025 Wash your hands, cooking implements and surfaces thoroughly with hot, soapy water before and after handling raw eggs or foods that contain them. Tanya Lewis, Scientific American, 24 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for implement
Recent Examples of Synonyms for implement
Verb
  • Anthony Bernon, 28, said Americans are becoming increasingly concerned about i the aggressive tactics being used by ICE and other federal agencies enforcing immigration policy.
    David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 13 Jan. 2026
  • Anne Arundel County police said their investigation into the incident is ongoing and emphasized that its officers do not enforce immigration law or conduct ICE operations.
    Karina Tsui, CNN Money, 13 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Gardening Tools Garden tools should be cleaned after every use to remove fungi, bacteria, and pests that can be transferred to healthy plants.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 9 Jan. 2026
  • And keep your in-flight essentials like headphones, sleep mask, e-reader, and other tech tools together in your personal item that stays with you at the seat rather than in the overhead bin.
    Alesandra Dubin, Travel + Leisure, 9 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • At least one woman was dragged along the pavement as officers appeared to prepare additional crowd-control devices.
    CBS News, CBS News, 9 Jan. 2026
  • In an interview with Interesting Engineering, Lou-Ambre Esnault, Reconcept, described the system as a multi-layered wellness environment rather than a single therapy device.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 9 Jan. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Implement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/implement. Accessed 15 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on implement

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