instrument

Tweet

noun

Definition of INSTRUMENT

1

a written or printed paper giving information about or proof of something <a valid will is a legal instrument>

Synonyms certification, document, instrument

Related Words credentials; diploma, parchment; record; warrant, writ; warranty; coupon, voucher

2

an article intended for use in work <always choose the right instrument for any woodworking job>

Synonyms device, instrument, tool, utensil

Related Words apparatus, appliance, mechanism; contraption, contrivance, gadget, gizmo (also gismo), jigger; accessory (also accessary), accoutrement (or accouterment), adjunct, appendage, attachment

3

something used to achieve an end <he sees scouting as an instrument for building character in young people>

Synonyms agency, instrument, instrumentality, machinery, means, medium, ministry, organ, vehicle

Related Words determinant, expedient, factor, influence, ingredient, mechanism, tool; weapon; activator, animator, catalyst, driver, energizer, executor, generator, impetus, incentive, inspiration, instigation, instigator, launcher, mover, power, stimulus, trigger; antecedent, cause, occasion, reason; subagency, subagent

4

one that is or can be used to further the purposes of another <the claim that the scientists are mere instruments of the tobacco companies, who pay them to produce findings that are highly suspect>

Synonyms cat's-paw, instrument, lay figure, puppet, tool

Related Words chump, dupe, foil, gull, sucker, victim; minion, stooge; lap dog, yes-man