utensil

[ yoo-ten-suhl ]

noun

1. any of the instruments or vessels commonly used in a kitchen, dairy, etc.:

   eating utensils; baking utensils.

2. any instrument, vessel, or tool serving a useful purpose:

   smoking utensils; fishing utensils; farming utensils.

utensil

/ juːˈtɛnsəl /

noun

1. an implement, tool, or container for practical use

   writing utensils

Word History and Origins

Origin of utensil¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English (collective singular): “household articles,” from Middle French utensile, from Latin ūtēnsilia, neuter plural of ūtēnsilis “useful,” derivative of ūtī “to use”; use

Word History and Origins

Origin of utensil¹

C14 utensele, via Old French from Latin ūtēnsilia necessaries, from ūtēnsilis available for use, from ūtī to use

Example Sentences

Speaking of trail snacks, these reusable bamboo utensil sets are stylish and practical, making them a perfect gift.

From Los Angeles Times

And each ”classic utensil set” includes a fork, spoon, knife and chopsticks, for versatility.

From Los Angeles Times

Named zeug after the German word for “stuff,” the utensil is a mediator for the intimacy of the hand-to-mouth gesture.

From Los Angeles Times

A blue-corn tostada served as a utensil.

From Salon

"This last 5 centimeters, from the utensil to inside the mouth, is extremely challenging," Bhattacharjee said.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• appliance
• equipment
• fork
• gadget
• instrument
• knife
• silverware
• tableware
• ware