appliance

noun

ə-ˈplī-ən(t)s How to pronounce appliance (audio)
Definition of appliancenext
1
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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2
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 There’s also 10% off select regular-price, sale, and clearance furniture, mattresses, lamps, rugs, and small appliances. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 5 June 2025 The footage features retro kitchen appliances, wood cabinets, a beaded curtain and a soft glow that resembles television sets from that decade. —Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 June 2025 Experts warn the steel tariffs could result in price hikes for cars, housing, and major appliances. —CNBC, 4 June 2025 The kitchen is nearby and includes a sink and quite a lot of cabinetry, plus space for appliances. —Adam Williams june 01, New Atlas, 1 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for appliance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for appliance
  1. gadget
  2. accessory
  3. option
Noun
  • The rechargeable gadget has only one button to power it on, shut it down, and adjust its speed setting.
    — Clint Davis, People.com, 30 May 2025
  • The chair also comes equipped with a cupholder, a gadget holder, and a pillow.
    — Brandi Fuller, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 May 2025
Definition of gadget
Noun
  • For example, a store in Austin could stock festival outfits during SXSW, or a store in Chicago might promote warm beverages or winter accessories ahead of a cold snap.
    — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025
  • Shop our top picks from the sale below, including comfy sneakers, sleek activewear, and highly useful accessories.
    — Sara Coughlin, SELF, 27 May 2025
Definition of accessory
Noun
  • One option was to book more celebrities or care about Instagram followers.
    — Hershal Pandya, Vulture, 28 May 2025
  • His contract expires in the summer of 2028, with a one-year option, but the Ghana international is expected to leave this summer, to enable West Ham to reinvest the fee in their team.
    — Roshane Thomas, New York Times, 28 May 2025
Definition of option

Browse Nearby Words

applesauce
appliance
appliances
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Appliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/appliance. Accessed 11 Jun. 2025.

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Nglish: Translation of appliance for Spanish Speakers

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