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Definitions

employ

[em-ploi] / ɛmˈplɔɪ /
VERB
make use of
Synonyms
STRONGEST
apply engage exploit handle occupy operate spend use utilize
STRONG
bestow exercise exert fill manipulate
WEAK
bring to bear keep busy put to use take up use up
Antonyms
STRONGEST
be lazy surrender yield
STRONG
take
WEAK
fire ignore lay off let go misuse shun unemploy
VERB
give money in exchange for work performed
Synonyms
STRONGEST
engage enlist hire retain
STRONG
commission contract ink obtain place procure secure
WEAK
bring on board come on board contract for put on sign on sign up take on truck with
Antonyms
STRONGEST
discharge fire let go release shun
STRONG
forfeit lose
WEAK
ignore lay off misuse unemploy

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.

Thank goodness that these tech-founder podcasters who are now in Altman’s employ will still be fair when talking about OpenAI.

From Slate • Apr. 7, 2026

They employ an average of about a dollar of debt for every dollar of investor equity.

From Barron's • Apr. 4, 2026

Manufacturers no longer play an outsized role in the U.S. economy, but they still employ about 13 million people.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

The plant, which was supposed to employ 900 workers, is down to a few hundred.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

He knew the mechanics of being a good commander: the tricks, procedures, requirements, and occasional gymnastics one had to employ to keep morale high and the higher echelons pleased.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy