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.

The Cal Fire engine’s driver and two other firefighters riding in the apparatus were transported to Inland Valley Hospital for evaluation.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

Shadow home secretary Chris Philp said more than 73,000 migrants had crossed the Channel since Labour came to power and the apparatus to remove those with no right to stay was collapsing.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

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

Few governors will build a serious verification and enforcement apparatus for a 35-cent return.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

I wonder if Genly Ai sees that in Orgoreyn, despite the vast visible apparatus of government, nothing is done visibly, nothing is said aloud.

From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin

Vocabulary lists containing apparatus

Orbiting Jupiter

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The Time Machine

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