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
But if lawmakers implement the cuts Idaho State Police proposed, there could be fewer officers available to respond to such protests, the agency said in its Friday memo. Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 31 Jan. 2026 While the state auditor, an official appointed by the governor, does a credible job of analyzing state spending, recommendations for improvements are often not implemented. Lanhee J. Chen, Mercury News, 31 Jan. 2026
Noun
In 70 experiments conducted over a few days, Veronika applied the implement exclusively to hard-to-reach areas, like her rump, loin, thurl and navel flap. Leslie Katz, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026 This artifact marks the first instance of an elephant bone tool discovered among the site’s vast collection of flint and antler implements. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 21 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for implement
Recent Examples of Synonyms for implement
Verb
  • The Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the legislature should act on the report’s recommendations with actions to strengthen reporting, enforce existing laws, prevent further abandonment of wells and ensure polluters pay for cleanup.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 1 Feb. 2026
  • Now, these men enforced that suspension, not by law, but by fear.
    Larry Pino, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Together, these tools create a more streamlined, precise, and safer approach to the repetitive and high-volume tasks common in large-scale data center projects.
    Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 1 Feb. 2026
  • In Mendonça’s work, memory functions as a tool of defiance.
    Stephania Taladrid, New Yorker, 1 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • That restriction has limited what microscopic devices can do.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 29 Jan. 2026
  • Like all WiiM speakers, the Sound Lite can be used as a standalone device or paired with with devices like WiiM Sound, WiiM Amps, WiiM Streamers and the WiiM Sub Pro, creating a true stereo setup with separate left and right channels.
    Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Implement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/implement. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026.

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