appliance

[ uh-plahy-uhns ]

noun

1. an instrument, apparatus, or device for a particular purpose or use.
2. a piece of equipment, usually operated electrically, especially for use in the home or for performance of domestic chores, as a refrigerator, washing machine, or toaster.
3. the act of applying; application.
4. Archaic. a measure; stratagem.
5. Obsolete. compliance.

verb (used with object)

, ap·pli·anced, ap·pli·anc·ing.

1. to equip with appliances:

   a fully applianced kitchen.

appliance

/ əˈplaɪəns /

noun

1. a machine or device, esp an electrical one used domestically
2. any piece of equipment having a specific function
3. a device fitted to a machine or tool to adapt it for a specific purpose
4. another name for a fire engine

Other Words From

• reap·pliance noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of appliance¹

First recorded in 1555–65; apply + -ance

Example Sentences

The family of Hamish Grant, a firefighter killed when their appliance overturned en route to a farmhouse fire in Aberdeenshire in April 1965 and PC Edward Barnett, shot and killed in Glasgow in January 1970, are also among the recipients.

From BBC

Its fourth retailer, discount furniture and appliance seller American Freight, will be closed.

From Los Angeles Times

A woman who miscarries and needs medical care is, in this worldview, much like a malfunctioning appliance.

From Salon

“You can get a panel attached to just one appliance and you’re all set,” Mike said.

From Slate

Twelve people worked the fire appliance, pumping the handle 24 times a minute.

From BBC

Related Words

• device
• gadget
• instrument
• tool