# equipment

/ɪˈkwɪpmənt/ (US) · /ɪkwˈɪpmənt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/equipment
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. tools and supplies

noun · CEFR A2

the tools, machines, or other items you need for a particular job or activity.

For teachers: 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.

Teaching tip: Learners frequently try to pluralise this word. Remind them to use 'pieces of equipment' if they need to count individual items.

### 2. male genitalia

noun · CEFR C1 · Humorous · Slang · Informal

a slang word for a man's private parts.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The gym has all the latest exercise equipment.
- Before starting the hike, we checked our equipment to make sure we had enough water and a working compass.
- The laboratory requires specialized equipment to maintain the sterile environment necessary for sensitive biological experiments.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.