Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of utensil are appliance, implement, instrument, and tool. While all these words mean "a relatively simple device for performing work," utensil applies to a device used in domestic work or some routine unskilled activity.

kitchen utensils

When is appliance a more appropriate choice than utensil?

While the synonyms appliance and utensil are close in meaning, appliance refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment.

household appliances

When would implement be a good substitute for utensil?

The words implement and utensil can be used in similar contexts, but implement may apply to anything necessary to perform a task.

crude stone implements
farm implements

When might instrument be a better fit than utensil?

While in some cases nearly identical to utensil, 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 utensil?

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

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 utensil The insulated cooler pocket keeps food and drinks cold for hours while the various straps and holders secure cups, utensils, and other goodies. Anne Taylor, Travel + Leisure, 23 Apr. 2025 Related article ‘Chaotic’ tariff regime and trade war are leaving small businesses in their wake Take Busy Baby, a small business based in Minnesota, which specializes in products that tether baby toys and utensils to keep them off the floor. Allison Morrow, CNN Money, 25 Apr. 2025 All the utensils are made of high-grade stainless steel and high–temperature–resistant silicone with a PVD gunmetal finish. Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 24 Apr. 2025 Eating utensils are built into the lid, and the whole thing is safe to put into the dishwasher, freezer, and microwave. Clint Davis, People.com, 20 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for utensil
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utensil
Noun
  • These foods serve as guilt-free pick-me-ups and stress relievers, used as tools for temporary self-soothing.
    Christine Michel Carter, Parents, 20 May 2025
  • In practice, the marketing language around these tools tends not to capture the ways that actual humans use them.
    Damon Beres, The Atlantic, 20 May 2025
Noun
  • The highest tier, which is $20.99 a month, includes the ability to stream on four devices and offers 4K Ultra HD video quality and 100 downloads.
    Saman Shafiq, USA Today, 16 May 2025
  • After Cecilie reported Oscar, the police went to the Hoffmanns' house to seize the devices Oscar had access to.
    Isadora Wandermurem, Time, 16 May 2025
Noun
  • Plenty of instruments from these two music legends have popped u at auction over the years.
    Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 20 May 2025
  • Explore emerging financial instruments: The green bond market offers significant opportunities for climate adaptation financing.
    Sophia Mendelsohn, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Utensil.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utensil. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on utensil

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