Word
equipment
Phoneticsequip·ment
US/ɪˈkwɪpmənt/
UK/ɪkwˈɪpmənt/
Definitions
01tools and supplies
A2 · Elementary Uncountable noun
n. the tools, machines, or other items you need for a particular job or activity.
n. the set of physical resources, tools, or apparatus required for a specific purpose or activity.
“The hikers checked their camping equipment one last time before heading into the woods.”
“The laboratory was outfitted with state-of-the-art medical equipment, allowing the researchers to conduct highly sensitive genetic sequencing.”
Usage
This noun is uncountable and takes a singular verb.
Pitfall
We bought some new equipments for the gym.
We bought some new equipment for the gym.
Equipment is uncountable. Do not add an 's' or use 'an' with it; use 'some equipment' or 'a piece of equipment' instead.
Teaching tip
Learners frequently try to pluralise this word. Remind them to use 'pieces of equipment' if they need to count individual items.
02male genitalia
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Humorous · Slang · Informal
n. a slang word for a man's private parts.
n. a euphemistic or humorous reference to the male genitalia.
“He made a silly joke about his 'equipment' after the gym shower.”
“The comedian relied on crude double entendres regarding his physical equipment to get a laugh from the rowdy audience.”
Teaching tip
This is a common euphemism in locker-room talk or low-brow comedy; students should be aware of the double meaning to avoid accidental embarrassment.
Synonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “equipment” in context.
Etymology
From equip + -ment, or from French équipement.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
Idioms
01. heavy equipment
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Very common
- Level
- A2 · ElementaryOxford
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/equipment