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

• 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

Parents name each item of food and utensil that the child uses at mealtime, in order to content a vocabulary word with a real-world object. —Hannah Nwoko, Parents, 20 Oct. 2025

How to Remove Grease from a Range Hood Before beginning the cleaning process, clear the cooktop or stove of any utensils and ensure the burners are off. —Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Oct. 2025

Metal utensils, aluminum foil, and other materials should not be microwaved. —Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 20 Oct. 2025

Once opened, air exposure and cross-contamination from utensils can introduce moisture and bacteria, shortening their shelf life. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 19 Oct. 2025

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