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

And all three of my children’s educational institutions have reusable plates and cutlery for every meal provided, without any single-use utensils.

From Salon

Cooking with any plastic utensil has long been seen as worrisome because heat can cause chemicals in the plastic to migrate into the food you’re about to eat.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Los Angeles Times

Cramped kitchens, dirty utensils, contaminated water, and improper transport and storage practices further compromise food safety.

From BBC

Surfaces, utensils and household items that may have come in contact with the eggs should be washed with hot soapy water or a dishwasher.

From Salon

Related Words

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

When To Use

What are other ways to say utensil?

A utensil refers to any instrument or vessel serving a useful purpose, especially those commonly used in a kitchen. When should you use this noun over tool, instrument, or implement? Learn more on Thesaurus.com.