TOP

Definition of appliance noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

 

appliance

 noun
noun
NAmE//əˈplaɪəns//
 
 
jump to other results
a machine that is designed to do a particular thing in the home, such as preparing food, heating, or cleaning electrical/household appliances They sell a wide range of home appliances—washing machines, dishwashers, and so on. stainless steel kitchen appliances Vocabulary Buildingobjectsyou can useIt is useful to know some general words to help you describe objects, especially if you do not know the name of a particular object.
  • A device is something that has been designed to do a particular job:Have you seen the new device for cars that warns drivers about traffic jams ahead?
  • A gadget is a small object that does something useful, but is not really necessary:His kitchen is full of gadgets he never uses.
  • An instrument is used especially for delicate or scientific work:A thermometer is an instrument that measures temperature.
  • A tool is something that you use for making and repairing things:A tool for turning screws is called a screwdriver.
  • A machine has moving parts and is used for a particular job. It usually stands on its own:A blender is an electric machine for mixing soft food or liquid.
  • An appliance is a large machine that you use in the house, such as a washing machine.
  • Equipment means all the things you need for a particular activity:rock climbing equipment.
  • Apparatus means all the tools, machines, or equipment that you need for something:firefighters wearing breathing apparatus.
See appliance in the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary