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Definition of appliance

appliance

/əˈplaɪ.əns/
ap · pli · ance

Plural:appliances
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appliance Lexical Profile

appliance Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A machine or device designed to perform a specific function, especially one used for domestic tasks such as cleaning, cooking, or food preservation.

Example

"When renovating the kitchen, they decided to upgrade to stainless steel energy-efficient appliances."


2

A specialized piece of equipment or instrument designed for a medical or dental purpose.

Example

"The orthodontist fitted him with a custom oral appliance to gradually correct his bite."


3

The action or process of bringing something into operation or use.

Example

"The successful appliance of these theoretical principles to engineering problems took decades of research."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for appliance
Antonyms
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• Rhymes for appliance

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the 1560s meaning 'action of applying,' derived from the verb apply and the suffix -ance. The modern sense denoting a tool, instrument, or household machine emerged in the mid-19th century.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Appliance. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/appliance
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