Definition of utensilnext
as in tool
an article intended for use in work participants in the class must supply their own writing utensils

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 In practice, that means keeping prep tools like knives, cutting boards and mixing bowls together near one counter and storing cookware, oils and utensils close to the stove. — Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 21 Oct. 2026 Grab your utensils and water and find a seat among our beautiful plants and new ambiance! — Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 21 Oct. 2026 The basics of proper washing dishes and utensils — hot water and sanitizer — were lacking at a West Miami-Dade restaurant that racked up the most state inspection violations in September. — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 29 Sep. 2026 Wash silver serving ware and utensils with soap and water after using to keep the silver’s shine and remove acidic or sticky residue that can harm its surface. — Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 29 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for utensil
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utensil
Noun
  • Better monitoring tools can help farmers identify disease threats earlier and avoid expensive eradication campaigns.
    — Robert Kelly, Fortune, 22 Oct. 2026
  • While federal scientists have created a national model to assess the likelihood of post-fire debris flows, communities don’t have an easily accessible tool to gauge their risk of post-fire flooding.
    — Abe Streep, ProPublica, 21 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Printing these flexible devices requires depositing two layers at once.
    — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 26 Oct. 2026
  • Those links could expose personal information or compromise devices.
    — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 25 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Ne-Yo followed suit and honed his tenor like a lithe instrument.
    — Clover Hope, Pitchfork, 25 Oct. 2026
  • The Pentagon report notes that the object's speed was estimated by witnesses rather than measured by instruments.
    — Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 25 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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