instrument

[ in-struh-muhnt ]

noun

1. a mechanical tool or implement, especially one used for delicate or precision work:

   surgical instruments.

2. a contrivance or apparatus for producing musical sounds:

   a stringed instrument.

3. a means by which something is effected or done; agency:

   an instrument of government.

4. a device for measuring the present value of a quantity under observation.
5. a mechanical or electronic measuring device, especially one used in navigation:

   landing a plane by instruments.

6. a formal legal document, as a draft or bond:

   negotiable instruments.

7. a person used by another merely as a means to some private end; tool or dupe.

verb (used with object)

1. to equip with instruments, as a machine or manufacturing process:

   to instrument a space vehicle.

2. to arrange a composition for musical instruments; orchestrate.

instrument

noun

1. a mechanical implement or tool, esp one used for precision work

   surgical instrument

2. music any of various contrivances or mechanisms that can be played to produce musical tones or sounds
3. an important factor or agency in something

   her evidence was an instrument in his arrest

4. informal.
   a person used by another to gain an end; dupe; tool
5. a measuring device, such as a pressure gauge or ammeter
6. 1. a device or system for use in navigation or control, esp of aircraft
   2. ( as modifier )

      instrument landing

7. a formal legal document

verb

1. another word for orchestrate
2. to equip with instruments

Other Words From

• under·instru·ment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of instrument¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English, from Latin instrūmentum equipment, equivalent to instrū-, stem of instruere “to equip” ( instruct ) + -mentum -ment

Word History and Origins

Origin of instrument¹

C13: from Latin instrūmentum tool, equipment, from instruere to erect, furnish; see instruct

Example Sentences

The answer to that question is a resounding “Yes,” but comes with a twist — the romance does not last, as the latter’s privileged background and thirst for revenge combine to make her a more-than-willing instrument for totalitarianism.

From Salon

McKagan estimates he wrote and recorded nearly 60 songs, primarily during the pandemic, and played nearly every instrument on the album.

From Los Angeles Times

Can you tell us about that instrument?

From Los Angeles Times

Australia's peak body for child rights has criticised the proposed ban as "too blunt an instrument".

From BBC

But I want an instrument to give me the start of a song.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• apparatus
• appliance
• device
• equipment
• gadget
• gear
• gizmo
• machine
• machinery
• mechanism