APPLIANCE Synonyms: 71 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'appliance' different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of appliance are implement , instrument , tool , and utensil . While all these words mean "a relatively simple device for performing work," appliance refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment. // household appliances

Q: When is 'implement' a more appropriate choice than 'appliance'?

In some situations, the words implement and appliance are roughly equivalent. However, implement may apply to anything necessary to perform a task. // crude stone implements // farm implements

Q: When can 'instrument' be used instead of 'appliance'?

Although the words instrument and appliance have much in common, instrument suggests a device capable of delicate or precise work. // the dentist's instruments

Q: How do 'tool' and 'implement' relate to one another, in the sense of 'appliance'?

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

Q: When would 'utensil' be a good substitute for 'appliance'?

While the synonyms utensil and appliance are close in meaning, utensil applies to a device used in domestic work or some routine unskilled activity. // kitchen utensils

appliance

noun

ə-ˈplī-ən(t)s

Definition of appliance

as in gadget

an interesting and often novel device with a practical use since the invention of the cork, all manner of appliances have been invented for the extraction of these sometimes troublesome stoppers

Synonyms & Similar Words

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as in accessory

something that is not necessary in itself but adds to the convenience or performance of the main piece of equipment an appliance that allows the machine to be used as a sander

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of appliance are implement, instrument, tool, and utensil. While all these words mean "a relatively simple device for performing work," appliance refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment.

household appliances

When is implement a more appropriate choice than appliance?

In some situations, the words implement and appliance are roughly equivalent. However, implement may apply to anything necessary to perform a task.

crude stone implements

farm implements

When can instrument be used instead of appliance?

Although the words instrument and appliance have much in common, 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 appliance?

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 would utensil be a good substitute for appliance?

While the synonyms utensil and appliance are close in meaning, 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 appliance But her consciousness now belongs to a medical graduate student from the present day, who uses her time traveling ability to bring modern appliances into the ancient kingdom. — Lavender Au, The Dial, 30 June 2026 Journeymen plumbers have demonstrated competence across water supply systems, sanitary drainage and venting, storm drainage, gas piping and appliance connections, and heating systems. — Ryan Craig, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 Residue In Washing Machine And Dryer Residue from fabric softeners also leaves a coating in washer and dryer drums that can cause issues with the appliances’ performance. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 2 July 2026 Texas lawmakers passed a broad blue law in 1961 that prohibited the sale of 42 categories of goods, including clothing, appliances, housewares and hardware, on both Saturday and Sunday. — Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for appliance

Recent Examples of Synonyms for appliance

Noun

Streaming boxes, chargers, and smart home gadgets can quietly add to your electricity bill.

— Ashlyn Needham, The Spruce, 5 July 2026
It’s aimed more at campers, drivers, field workers, and anyone who would rather carry one very chunky device than several separate gadgets.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 5 July 2026

Definition of gadget

Noun

The designer recently also unveiled a Net-a-porter exclusive footwear capsule with Manolo Blahnik, which combines Blahnik’s craftsmanship across shoes and accessories with Wickstead’s feminine and detailed approach to womenswear.

— Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 3 July 2026
That means all the important stuff, along with some smaller accessories like weather-resistant furniture covers.

— Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 3 July 2026

Definition of accessory

Noun

This affordable option packs a surprising amount of organizing power into one compact bag.

— Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 7 July 2026
If an island getaway is favored, there are plenty of options across the globe to choose from, all with pristine beaches and seaside charm.

— Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2026

Definition of option

Browse Nearby Words

applesauce

appliance

appliances

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Style

“Appliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/appliance. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of appliance

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