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

• implementable adjective
• implemental adjective
• implementation noun
• implementer noun
• 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

“ICEBlock is no different from crowdsourcing speed traps, which every notable mapping application, including Apple’s own Maps app, implements as part of its core services,” Aaron said.

From Salon

Emergency workers were called to 286 buildings to free people trapped inside elevators in the Madrid region and hospitals implemented emergency plans, halting routine procedures.

From BBC

If they can't implement simple tactics such as how to correctly defend a throw-in, then something is badly wrong.

From BBC

BBC Scotland News examines which parts of Scotland plan to implement the charge?

From BBC

The first rule would not mandate work requirements and time limits; instead, it permits local housing authorities and landlords to implement them.

From Salon

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.