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

Examples 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 Material created a line of durable cooking and baking utensils that are sized down for small hands. Shanna Shipin, Glamour, 7 Oct. 2024 It’s made from heat-resistant silicone and has multiple slots to hold your utensils and a drip tray to minimize the mess. Katiee McKinstry, Rolling Stone, 4 Oct. 2024 Don't share items such as toothbrushes, pacifiers, utensils, washcloths, towels, and drinking cups.14 Wash your baby's toys and clothes often. Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 3 Oct. 2024 And, indeed, another paper from 2018 found that flame retardants in black kitchen utensils readily migrate into hot cooking oil. Zoë Schlanger, The Atlantic, 30 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for utensil 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utensil
Noun
  • On the white marble counter of the open kitchen lie six or seven tools neatly arranged by size, including a power drill, a hammer, and a handsaw.
    Suzanne Seggerman, Curbed, 14 Nov. 2024
  • More digital tools than ever before have come to market to address the ongoing loneliness epidemic.
    Allie Volpe, Vox, 14 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Video and recording devices including Go Pros & Google glasses.
    Ed Masley, The Arizona Republic, 21 Nov. 2024
  • The ultrasonic waves emitted by this device essentially help to shake congestion loose, gently pushing blackheads out of pores without the need for firm pressure or painful extractions.
    Emily Orofino, Vogue, 21 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • The filing also details various financial instruments, including convertible notes and warrants issued in January 2023.
    Quartz Bot, Quartz, 14 Nov. 2024
  • Both sides of the family all sang and played instruments.
    Sid Evans, Southern Living, 5 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near utensil

Cite this Entry

“Utensil.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utensil. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on utensil

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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