Definitions

apparatus

[ap-uh-rat-uhs, -rey-tuhs] / ˌæp əˈræt əs, -ˈreɪ təs /

NOUN

equipment with a purpose

Synonyms

STRONGEST

appliance device gear gizmo machine machinery means mechanism

STRONG

accoutrement contraption dingbat doodad doohickey furnishings gaff gimcrack gimmick grabber habiliments implement jigger job outfit paraphernalia provisions setup stuff supplies tackle thingamajig tools utensils whatchamacallit whatsis widget

WEAK

black box idiot box whosis

NOUN

organization or system

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bureaucracy hierarchy network structure

STRONG

setup

WEAK

chain of command

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

CBS reported, citing unnamed sources, that members of the US military and intelligence apparatus were cancelling holiday weekend plans in anticipation of possible strikes.

From Barron's • May 22, 2026

Its worsening fuel shortages are likely to imperil its security apparatus and the operational capability of its armed forces.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026

However, much of the Caballero family’s performance lore begins with Isabel’s son, 82-year-old Rubén: an apparatus connoisseur well-versed in the high wire, trapeze and hand balancing.

From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2026

More than a decade into his political ascent, it’s remarkable how thoroughly the lesson of Donald Trump has been internalized by the apparatus around him.

From Salon • May 18, 2026

I cried and jumped back, almost overturning the whole apparatus.

From "The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate" by Jacqueline Kelly

Vocabulary lists containing apparatus

Orbiting Jupiter

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Among the Hidden

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The Time Machine

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