appliance
UK[əˈplaɪəns]US[əˈplaɪəns]
n
a device or piece of equipment designed to perform a specific task, typically a domestic one.
n
the action of putting something into operation; application.
Morpheme Breakdown
appli
ance
appli
apply
ance
state or quality
Etymology
the word 'appliance' originates from the old french 'apliance', meaning 'application' or 'act of applying'. this, in turn, derives from the latin verb 'applicare', composed of 'ad-' (to) and 'plicare' (to fold), conveying the sense of attaching something to a purpose. the core semantic shift moved from the general act of applying effort or a tool to the specific modern sense of a device that applies technology to perform a function. thus, an appliance is essentially a tool or machine that embodies the 'state of being applied' to a practical task.
Analysis
Structure: appli (apply) + ance (state or quality)
appli is from the latin root 'applicare', meaning to attach, join, or put to use. ance is a noun-forming suffix of latin origin via old french, denoting a state, quality, or action.
Examples
the kitchen is equipped with modern stainless steel appliances.
the appliance of scientific principles has revolutionized agriculture.
before purchasing a major appliance, it is wise to compare energy efficiency ratings.