An appliance is a functional machine designed to make household chores easier and more efficient.
Word in 30 Seconds
- A machine used for household tasks.
- Usually powered by electricity or gas.
- Categorized into major and small types.
Overview
The term 'appliance' refers to functional machines used in domestic or professional settings. While the word can technically apply to any tool designed for a specific purpose, it is almost exclusively used in modern English to describe household hardware like refrigerators, washing machines, or toasters. 2) Usage Patterns: In common usage, appliances are categorized into 'major appliances' (often called 'white goods' like stoves or dryers) and 'small appliances' (like blenders or coffee makers). The word is count-based, meaning you can have 'one appliance' or 'many appliances.' 3) Common Contexts: You will frequently hear this word in real estate, retail, and home maintenance. For instance, when renting an apartment, a landlord might specify whether it comes with 'major appliances.' In retail, stores dedicated to these items are called 'appliance stores.' 4) Similar Words Comparison: While 'gadget' implies a small, often electronic, novelty item that might be fun but not strictly necessary, 'appliance' implies a heavier, utilitarian machine that performs a standard, essential domestic chore. 'Apparatus' is a much more formal or scientific term, usually reserved for laboratory or complex mechanical equipment, whereas 'appliance' remains firmly rooted in the home environment.
Examples
The kitchen is fully equipped with modern appliances.
everydayThe kitchen is fully equipped with modern appliances.
Please unplug all electrical appliances before leaving for vacation.
formalPlease unplug all electrical appliances before leaving for vacation.
My new coffee maker is the best appliance I've ever bought.
informalMy new coffee maker is the best appliance I've ever bought.
The evolution of domestic appliances significantly reduced time spent on manual labor.
academicThe evolution of domestic appliances significantly reduced time spent on manual labor.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
domestic appliance
domestic appliance
energy-efficient appliance
energy-efficient appliance
Often Confused With
A gadget is usually a small, clever mechanical or electronic device that is often more about convenience or novelty than essential work.
Apparatus is a formal term for a complex structure or a set of equipment used for a specific scientific or technical purpose.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word is neutral to formal. It is primarily used in the context of home management and retail. Avoid using it to describe small handheld items like phones or pens.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use the word as an adjective, such as 'appliance store' (which is correct) but then try to describe other items as 'appliance-like'. Remember it is a noun used to categorize machines.
Tips
Distinguish between electronics and appliances
Remember that appliances perform chores, while electronics provide information or entertainment. This helps you choose the right vocabulary in a store.
Avoid using as an adjective
The word 'appliance' is a noun. You cannot say 'this is an appliance machine'; simply say 'this is a kitchen appliance'.
Regional naming differences
In some regions, small appliances like a toaster or kettle are sometimes referred to as 'small electricals' rather than just appliances.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin 'applicare', meaning to join or attach. It entered English via Old French, originally meaning the act of applying something.
Cultural Context
In Western culture, the rise of home appliances in the 20th century is often cited as a key factor in changing domestic life and enabling more women to join the workforce.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'apply'. An appliance is a machine that you 'apply' to a specific chore to get it done faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsGenerally, no. TVs are usually classified as 'electronics' or 'consumer electronics' rather than appliances, as they are for entertainment rather than performing a household chore.
A tool is typically manual and simple, like a hammer or a screwdriver. An appliance is typically a more complex, powered machine designed for a specific, repetitive domestic function.
Rarely. While the term 'virtual appliance' exists in computing to describe a pre-configured virtual machine, you should avoid using 'appliance' to describe standard software programs.
Yes, 'white goods' is a common industry term specifically for large household appliances like refrigerators and washing machines, which were traditionally finished in white enamel.
Test Yourself
We need to buy a new kitchen ___ because our old one stopped cooling the food.
A refrigerator is a major household machine, which fits the definition of an appliance.
Score: /1
Summary
An appliance is a functional machine designed to make household chores easier and more efficient.
- A machine used for household tasks.
- Usually powered by electricity or gas.
- Categorized into major and small types.
Distinguish between electronics and appliances
Remember that appliances perform chores, while electronics provide information or entertainment. This helps you choose the right vocabulary in a store.
Avoid using as an adjective
The word 'appliance' is a noun. You cannot say 'this is an appliance machine'; simply say 'this is a kitchen appliance'.
Regional naming differences
In some regions, small appliances like a toaster or kettle are sometimes referred to as 'small electricals' rather than just appliances.
Examples
4 of 4The kitchen is fully equipped with modern appliances.
The kitchen is fully equipped with modern appliances.
Please unplug all electrical appliances before leaving for vacation.
Please unplug all electrical appliances before leaving for vacation.
My new coffee maker is the best appliance I've ever bought.
My new coffee maker is the best appliance I've ever bought.
The evolution of domestic appliances significantly reduced time spent on manual labor.
The evolution of domestic appliances significantly reduced time spent on manual labor.
Quick Quiz
The energy star label helps consumers identify which _____ uses the least amount of electricity.
Correct!
The correct answer is: appliance
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Vocabulary
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villa
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turf
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cement
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stair
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residential
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posthabation
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aquarium
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