instrumentation

noun

in·​stru·​men·​ta·​tion ˌin(t)-strə-mən-ˈtā-shən 

-ˌmen-

1

: the arrangement or composition of music for instruments especially for a band or orchestra

2

: the use or application of instruments (as for observation, measurement, or control)

3

: instruments for a particular purpose

also : a selection or arrangement of instruments

Examples of instrumentation in a Sentence

There was a problem with the airplane's instrumentation.

Recent Examples on the Web

However, many of these next-generation designs are expected to depend heavily on digital instrumentation, automation, and cybersecurity rather than the analog systems found in today’s conventional reactors. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 11 July 2026

Loeb says the group is focused on evidence, instrumentation, data analysis and collection standards. — Leonard David, Space.com, 11 July 2026

Murphy, an instrumentation engineer, had designed electronic strain gauge sensors that could accurately measure the amount of G-force applied during deceleration. — Laura Payne, Encyclopedia Britannica, 10 July 2026

These use cases include remote terrestrial sensors—such as in undersea or polar locations—and instrumentation for secure communications. — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 8 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1818, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for instrumentation

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

Kids Definition

instrumentation

noun

in·​stru·​men·​ta·​tion ˌin(t)-strə-mən-ˈtā-shən 

-ˌmen-

1

: the arrangement or composition of music for instruments

2

: instruments for a particular purpose

the instrumentation of an aircraft

Medical Definition

instrumentation

noun

in·​stru·​men·​ta·​tion ˌin(t)-strə-mən-ˈtā-shən, -ˌmen- 

: a use of or operation with instruments

especially : the use of one or more instruments in treating a patient (as in the passing of a cystoscope)