utensil

noun

uten·​sil yu̇-ˈten(t)-səl 

ˈyü-ˌten(t)-

1

: an implement, instrument, or vessel used in a household and especially a kitchen

2

: a useful tool or implement

Synonyms of utensil

• tool
• device
• instrument

Choose the Right Synonym for utensil

implement, tool, instrument, appliance, utensil mean a relatively simple device for performing work.

implement may apply to anything necessary to perform a task.

crude stone implements

farm implements

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

instrument suggests a device capable of delicate or precise work.

the dentist's instruments

appliance refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment.

household appliances

utensil applies to a device used in domestic work or some routine unskilled activity.

kitchen utensils

Examples of utensil in a Sentence

participants in the class must supply their own writing utensils

Recent Examples on the Web

The utensils hanging under the upper cabinets are all stainless steel. — Jenny Hughes, The Spruce, 15 Sep. 2026

Suggestions include pots and pans, dishes, silverware, glass wear, mugs, cooking utensils, kitchen towels, kitchen supplies like dish soap, trash bags, cleaning supplies and reusable water bottles. — Pomerado News, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Sep. 2026

This station’s generous surface and prep areas include three side tables, a steel mesh shelf, cup holders, and an adjustable pole for hanging a lantern or keeping cooking utensils close by. — Brittany Vanderbill, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Sep. 2026

The long holiday weekend brings major savings on Le Creuset Dutch ovens, baking dishes, ergonomic utensils, whistling tea kettles, and cast iron bread ovens. — Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 6 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, vessels for domestic use, from Middle French utensile, from Latin utensilia, from neuter plural of utensilis useful, from uti to use

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for utensil

• commensal
• prehensile
• intercensal
• pencil
• stencil
• tensile

Kids Definition

utensil

noun

uten·​sil yu̇-ˈten(t)-səl 

1

: a device or container used in a household and especially a kitchen

2

: an article serving a useful purpose

writing utensils