implement 1 of 2

implement

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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
Cycling in Westport Westport’s entertainment district implemented security checkpoints and pedestrian-only streets on weekend evenings starting in 2018 in an attempt to deter late-night violent crime in the area. Nathan Pilling updated July 11, Kansas City Star, 11 July 2025 The city implemented its program in 1997 amid a broader underfunding of the pension system, which eventually tanked the city’s credit rating, grew its deficit and led to resignations of top city officials and federal investigations. Lucas Robinson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 July 2025
Noun
The oldest implement dated to around 19,600 to 20,200 years ago, while several others dated to between 16,000 and 17,500 years ago. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 28 May 2025 Plowshare: an agricultural implement for turning soil, for gouging a cleft in the earth. Literary Hub, 11 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for implement
Recent Examples of Synonyms for implement
Verb
  • The gateway manages credentials, enforces access controls and provides audit trails for AI tool usage, addressing compliance requirements that often block enterprise AI deployments.
    Janakiram MSV, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025
  • And while Home Depot has an official no-solicitation policy for its stores, it’s enforced at the discretion of individual store managers and security personnel.
    Nathaniel Meyersohn, CNN Money, 18 July 2025
Noun
  • The summary points above were compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in the Miami Herald newsroom.
    Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 19 July 2025
  • However, these tools often provide information that is completely inaccurate, and in the context of security, that can be dangerous.
    Staff, FOXNews.com, 19 July 2025
Noun
  • Granted, lots of iPhones can run iOS 26, but there are also so notable devices missing from the list.
    Kate O'Flaherty, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • He is expected to grow out of the three support devices after undergoing a few surgeries.
    Raven Brunner, People.com, 14 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Implement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/implement. Accessed 26 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on implement

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