n.
Pronunciation: ' im-pl ə -m ə nt
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin implementum action of filling up, from Latin impl ē re to fill up, from in- + pl ē re to fill ― more at FULL
Date: 15th century
1 : an article serving to equip <the implement s of religious worship>
2 : a device used in the performance of a task : TOOL , UTENSIL
3 : one that serves as an instrument or tool <the partnership agreement does not seem to be a very potent implement ― H. B. Hoffman>
synonyms IMPLEMENT , TOOL , INSTRUMENT , APPLIANCE , UTENSIL mean a relatively simple device for performing work. IMPLEMENT may apply to anything necessary to perform a task <crude stone implements > <farm implements >. 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 >. INSTRUMENT suggests a device capable of delicate or precise work <the dentist's instruments >. APPLIANCE refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment <household appliances >. UTENSIL applies to a device used in domestic work or some routine unskilled activity <kitchen utensils >.