implementation

American  

[im-pluh-muhn-tey-shuhn, ‑men‑] / ˌɪm plə mənˈteɪ ʃən, ‑mɛn‑ /

noun

1. the act of implementing, or putting into effect; fulfillment.

   The implementation of policies to conserve energy will involve personal sacrifice.

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Etymology

Origin of implementation

implement + -ation

Explanation

Implementation refers to the carrying out a plan, like your school's implementation of the new dress code that will start in August — for now, you can keep wearing your jeans. Implementation is the noun form of the verb implement, or "to carry out or accomplish," and you’ll often see it used in reference to a government plan or act. Use this word to describe the process of turning formal plans — often very detailed conceptual plans that will affect many — into reality. For example, the implementation of new parking fees means everyone has to put more money in the parking meters.

Example Sentences

Ultimately, no matter how alive the museum is or isn’t, implementation of these systems requires humans.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 5, 2026

Lawmakers and capitals had long agreed on the substance of the reform, but talks in May to greenlight it were delayed because of differences over the timeline for implementation.

From Barron's • Jun. 1, 2026

Some companies said that AI could create new jobs over the next several years, but full implementation could also wipe out 30% or more of their existing roles.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 27, 2026

Their role is shifting from implementation to governance, from configuration to architecture, from maintenance to judgment.

From MarketWatch • May 27, 2026

When the Supreme Court issued its implementation decree for Brown v.

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson