instruct

in·struct

transitive verb \in-ˈstrəkt\

Definition of INSTRUCT

1

: to give knowledge to : teach, train

2

: to provide with authoritative information or advice <the judge instructed the jury>

3

: to give an order or command to : direct

Examples of INSTRUCT

1. She instructed us that we were to remain in our seats.
2. The judge instructed the jury that they should disregard the testimony of the last witness.
3. She advised him to instruct a solicitor.

Origin of INSTRUCT

Middle English, from Latin instructus, past participle of instruere, from in- + struere to build — more at structure

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to INSTRUCT

Synonyms

educate, indoctrinate, teach, lesson, school, train, tutor

Antonyms

mind, obey

Related Words

coach, mentor; drill, fit, ground, habilitate, prepare, prime, qualify; direct, guide, lead, rear; catechize, lecture, moralize, preach; implant, inculcate, instill (also instil); homeschool; edify, enlighten; brief, familiarize, impart (to), inform, verse; initiate, introduce, show; reeducate, reschool, reteach, retrain

Near Antonyms

misinform, mislead

See Synonym Discussion at teach, command

Other Education Terms

baccalaureate, colloquium, corequisite, dissertation, monograph, pedant, practicum, survey course, thesis

Rhymes with INSTRUCT

abduct, adduct, bile duct, conduct, construct, deduct, eruct, induct, obstruct, reluct, subduct