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

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde declined to give any further details about recommendations it had implemented.

From BBC

“It would be amazing to see this support and care implemented nationally. This is not just a California issue.”

From Los Angeles Times

They held signs that say “End Smash & Grab” and that call for the state to implement tougher penalties for criminals as approved by voters in November under Proposition 36.

From Los Angeles Times

"The programmes are designed to yield breakthroughs that can be implemented at scale in collaboration with researchers, clinicians, as well as those in grassroots organisations."

From BBC

Until governments are able to implement policies that can reverse the surge in childhood obesity, it's left to institutions and individuals to safeguard the health of future generations.

From BBC

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.