implement

[im-pluh-muhnt, im-pluh-ment, -muhnt]

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.

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

noun

1. a piece of equipment; tool or utensil

   gardening implements

2. something used to achieve a purpose; agent

verb

1. to carry out; put into action; perform

   to implement a plan

2. archaic,  to complete, satisfy, or fulfil

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of implement¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of implement¹

C17: from Late Latin implēmentum, literally: a filling up, from Latin implēre to fill up, satisfy, fulfil

Example Sentences

They said it was a "manifesto commitment and legislative priority" for the Labour government, and the bill's "transformational powers" would be implemented swiftly after it becomes law.

From BBC

While Machar's inclusion in the unity government was a key part of the agreement, other parts of it have not been implemented.

From BBC

The ban was not implemented at the time because of strong public opposition, but officials warned that the platform was increasingly being used to spread harmful content including extremist propaganda and defamatory material.

From BBC

Following the controversy of the 2019 election, Malawi implemented a new system, where a candidate must gain more than 50% of the total votes to win the presidency in the first round.

From BBC

Newer houses must comply with changes he helped implement in Chapter 7A of the California Building Code, including requiring ignition-resistant materials for roofs and decks, dual-pane glass for windows and vents that keep embers out.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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

When To Use

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.