instrument

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noun in·stru·ment \ˈin(t)-strə-mənt\

Definition of instrument

1 : a device used to produce music; also : a singing voice
2a : a means whereby something is achieved, performed, or furtheredb : one used by another as a means or aid : dupe, tool
3 : implement; especially : one designed for precision work
4 : a formal legal document (such as a deed, bond, or agreement)
5a : a measuring device for determining the present value of a quantity under observationb : an electrical or mechanical device used in navigating an airplane; especially : such a device used as the sole means of navigating

See instrument defined for English-language learners

See instrument defined for kids

Examples of instrument in a sentence

an instrument designed to measure the Earth's atmosphere
The piano was his favorite musical instrument.
Do you play any instruments?

Origin and Etymology of instrument

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin instrumentum, from instruere to arrange, instruct

First Known Use: 14th century

Synonym Discussion of instrument

implement, tool, instrument, appliance, utensil mean a relatively simple device for performing work. implement may apply to anything necessary to perform a task. crude stone implements farm implements tool suggests an implement adapted to facilitate a definite kind or stage of work and suggests the need of skill more strongly than implement . a carpenter's tools instrument suggests a device capable of delicate or precise work. the dentist's instruments appliance refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment. household appliances utensil applies to a device used in domestic work or some routine unskilled activity. kitchen utensils

Other Music Terms

cacophony, chorister, concerto, counterpoint, madrigal, obbligato, presto, presto, refrain, riff, segue

instrument

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verb in·stru·ment \ˈin(t)-strə-ˌment\

Definition of instrument

transitive verb
1 : to address a legal instrument to
2 : to score for musical performance : orchestrate
3 : to equip with instruments especially for measuring and recording data

1752

First Known Use of instrument

1752

Other Music Terms

cacophony, chorister, concerto, counterpoint, madrigal, obbligato, presto, presto, refrain, riff, segue

INSTRUMENT Defined for English Language Learners

instrument

play

noun in·stru·ment \ˈin(t)-strə-mənt\

Definition of instrument for English Language Learners

: a tool or device used for a particular purpose; especially : a tool or device designed to do careful and exact work
: a device that measures something (such as temperature or distance)
: a device that is used to make music

INSTRUMENT Defined for Kids

instrument

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noun in·stru·ment \ˈin-strə-mənt\

Definition of instrument for Students

1 : a tool or device for doing a particular kind of work a dentist's instruments
2 : a device used to produce music
3 : a way of getting something done Curiosity is an instrument of discovery.
4 : a legal document (as a deed)
5 : a device that measures something (as altitude or temperature)

Medical Dictionary

instrument

play

noun in·stru·ment \ˈin(t)-strə-mənt\

Medical Definition of instrument

: any implement, tool, or utensil (as for surgery)

Law Dictionary

instrument

noun in·stru·ment

Legal Definition of instrument

1 : a means or implement by which something is achieved, performed, or furthered an instrument of crime
2 : a document (as a deed, will, bond, note, certificate of deposit, insurance policy, warrant, or writ) evidencing rights or duties especially of one party to another under the law a person is not liable on an instrument unless the person signed the instrument — Uniform Commercial Code an indictment is a form of charging instrument; specifically : negotiable instrument