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

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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 Appliance garages are a smart way to get the clutter-free look, but their future depends on design that keeps safety in mind, because the best appliance garage hides the clutter without hiding the risks. — Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 22 Oct. 2026 Home Harvest is the latest contender in this indoor smart garden space, with two appliances designed to turn microgreens, herbs, and salads into something halfway between a countertop convenience and a gardening project. — New Atlas, 22 Oct. 2026 The kitchen has Gaggenau and Thermador appliances, Snaidero cabinetry and cantilevered countertops. — Saleema Syed, Chicago Tribune, 22 Oct. 2026 Even as new equipment and materials transformed the room, the principle of planning storage, appliances, and work surfaces as a continuous, complementary whole endured. — Tara Anne Dalbow, Architectural Digest, 21 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for appliance

Recent Examples of Synonyms for appliance

Noun

From time-saving kitchen gadgets and food warmers to festive serving platters, Thanksgiving table decorations and clever ways to store leftovers, there are plenty of products that can help make the holiday feel a little less stressful.

— ABC News, ABC News, 22 Oct. 2026
The iPhone has been the same for so long that being forced to come up with little moves and tricks and ways to think about holding the Duo is a gadget nerd thrill.

— Nilay Patel, The Verge, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of gadget

Noun

Its thrift store is stocked with clothes and items collected during student move-outs when many items get left behind, including Halloween costumes and accessories.

— Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 24 Oct. 2026
But the versatility of the color doesn’t end with clothes; the beauty of camel extends to accessories, making even the smallest details feel luxe.

— InStyle, InStyle, 24 Oct. 2026

Definition of accessory

Noun

The Royals could also decline All-Star closer Carlos Estévez’s club option.

— Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 24 Oct. 2026
Ukraine believes security guarantees backed by Western allies are essential to any future settlement, ideally in the form of NATO membership — an option Vladimir Putin has rejected.

— ABC News, ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026

Definition of option

Browse Nearby Words

applesauce

appliance

appliances

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“Appliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/appliance. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of appliance

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