First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
utensil
noun uten·sil \yu̇-ˈten(t)-səl, ˈyü-ˌ\
: a simple and useful device that is used for doing tasks in a person's home and especially in the kitchen
Full Definition of UTENSIL
1
: an implement, instrument, or vessel used in a household and especially a kitchen
2
: a useful tool or implement
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Origin of UTENSIL
Middle English, vessels for domestic use, from Middle French utensile, from Latin utensilia, from neuter plural of utensilis useful, from uti to use
Related to UTENSIL
- Synonyms
- device, instrument, tool, implement
Synonym Discussion of UTENSIL
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>.
Rhymes with UTENSIL
UTENSIL Defined for Kids
utensil
noun uten·sil \yu̇-ˈten-səl\
Definition of UTENSIL for Kids
1
: a tool or container used in a home and especially a kitchen
2
: a useful tool
Word Root of UTENSIL
The Latin word ūtī, meaning “to use,” “to possess,” or “to enjoy,” and its form ūsus give us the roots ut and us. Words from the Latin ūtī have something to do with use. To use is to possess and enjoy. To abuse is to use something incorrectly or unfairly. Anything usual is commonly used by many people. A utensil is a tool that is used for a particular purpose, especially for eating or cooking.
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