implement

American  

[im-pluh-muhnt, im-pluh-ment, -muhnt] / ˈɪm plə mənt, ˈɪm pləˌmɛnt, -mənt /

noun

1. any article used in some activity, especially an instrument, tool, or utensil.

   agricultural implements.

2. an article of equipment, as household furniture, clothing, ecclesiastical vestments, or the like.

3. a means; agent.

   human beings as an implement of divine plan.

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verb (used with object)

1. to fulfill; perform; carry out.

   Once in office, he failed to implement his campaign promises.

2. to put into effect according to or by means of a definite plan or procedure.

3. Computers. to realize or instantiate (an element in a program), often under certain conditions as specified by the software involved.

4. to fill out or supplement.

5. to provide with implements.

implement British  

noun

1. a piece of equipment; tool or utensil

   gardening implements

2. something used to achieve a purpose; agent

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verb

1. to carry out; put into action; perform

   to implement a plan

2. archaic to complete, satisfy, or fulfil

Usage

What are other ways to say implement? The word implement broadly refers to any article used in some activity. When should you use this noun over tool, instrument, or utensil? Learn more on Thesaurus.com. 

Other Word Forms

• implementable adjective
• implemental adjective
• implementation noun
• implementer noun
• implementor noun
• nonimplement noun
• nonimplemental adjective
• reimplement verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of implement

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English, from Late Latin implēmentum “a filling up,” equivalent to Latin implē(re) “to fill up” ( im- im- ¹ + plēre “to fill” ) + -mentum -ment

Example Sentences

"A new Heat Rule is being implemented across ATP events, with clear protocols to suspend or adjust play in extreme conditions," the ATP said in its statement.

From Barron's

But the U.N. pipeline supplies groups that it relies on to implement aid programs on the ground.

From The Wall Street Journal

The School Nutrition Association, which represents school nutrition professionals, said school meal programs operate on tight budgets and urged Congress to invest resources to ensure that schools can implement recommendations in the new dietary guidelines.

From The Wall Street Journal

Both ideas face significant logistical hurdles and could take years to be implemented.

From Barron's

Both ideas face significant logistical hurdles and could take years to be implemented.

From Barron's

Related Words

• achieve
• carry out
• complete
• enforce
• realize
• resolve