replacement

noun

re·​place·​ment ri-ˈplās-mənt How to pronounce replacement (audio)
Synonyms of replacementnext
1
: the action or process of replacing : the state of being replaced
2
: one that replaces another especially in a job or function

Synonyms of replacement

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Examples of replacement in a Sentence

We need a replacement for our old vacuum cleaner. Where can we get replacement parts for the tractor?
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Beshear has suggested Kentucky's Constitution may give him the power to appoint a temporary replacement if a vacancy occurs. — Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 4 Aug. 2026 The person closest to the work, like the nurse who has worked through a 200-page case file for a knee replacement and knows exactly whether the documentation should be approved, is best positioned to catch what the system missed. — Fawad Butt, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026 Breslow, emboldened by his replacement of manager Alex Cora with Chad Tracy and his team’s six-week run of brilliance, swung about as hard as an executive can. — Ken Rosenthal, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026 Use thoughtful questions to decide what to keep, focusing on function, future use, and replacement difficulty. — Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for replacement

Word History

First Known Use

1743, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of replacement was in 1743

Phrases Containing replacement

Rhymes for replacement

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Browse Nearby Words

replaced crystal
replacement
replacement depot
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Cite this Entry

“Replacement.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/replacement. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

replacement

noun
re·​place·​ment ri-ˈplā-smənt How to pronounce replacement (audio)
1
: the act of replacing : the state of being replaced
2
: one that replaces another : substitute

Legal Definition

replacement

noun
re·​place·​ment
1
a
: the act of replacing : the state of being replaced
b
: an insurer's option under a policy to replace or repair damaged property rather than pay the insured for the loss
2
: something that replaces
specifically : a new fixed asset or portion of an asset that takes the place of one discarded (as because of deterioration)

More from Merriam-Webster on replacement

Nglish: Translation of replacement for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about replacement

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