Definition of implementnext

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
Public bathrooms Tourists and locals alike can be more at ease when exploring NYC, as Mayor Zohran Mamdani implements a new program rolling out free modular public bathrooms in high-traffic areas across the city. — Maureen O'Hare, CNN Money, 10 Oct. 2026 Various national lawmakers, including representatives directly threatened by redistricting, have introduced legislation aimed at implementing national standards to stop this from happening. — Jon Allsop, New Yorker, 10 Oct. 2026
Noun
On occasion, Nauman sets his two drafting tools on the table, switching them out for another pair; the two implements also change hands. — Jeffrey Weiss, Artforum, 1 Sep. 2026 Part of it is that implements that can be used to stab someone can be found just about anywhere. — Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for implement
Recent Examples of Synonyms for implement
Verb
  • The judge also found the city liable because Harris had final authority to enforce the public-participation policy during council meetings.
    — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 16 Oct. 2026
  • SpaceX agreed to testify earlier this week after the council threatened to have its subpoena enforced by a judge.
    — Lora Kolodny, CNBC, 16 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Unions can also be powerful tools for combating racial pay discrimination; the new report shows tripling union membership would narrow the racial wage gap by more than a third.
    — Liz Shuler, Time, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Together, the tools could help accelerate the development of more resilient electric motor systems while reducing the risks associated with critical material shortages, volatile supply chains and rapidly changing global markets.
    — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 15 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Known as the FiberMotor, the device was developed by a team of researchers at the EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne) university in Switzerland.
    — Ben Coxworth October 11, New Atlas, 11 Oct. 2026
  • Silver said players routinely use wearable devices off the court to monitor everything from sleep to physical performance, but concerns remain over how data collected during games could be used by teams.
    — Jessica Golden, CNBC, 11 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Implement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/implement. Accessed 17 Oct. 2026.

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