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

The sound breathes, oscillating between close instrumentation and wafting voices. —Sasha Geffen, Pitchfork, 10 Mar. 2026

Later, Kissin convenes a piano trio with violinist Maxim Vengerov and cellist Gautier Capuçon to tackle the composer’s major works for that instrumentation (May 18, 2027). —Hannah Edgar, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2026

Buoyed by Indian-leaning instrumentation, and a haunting beat-switching production, the Argentine rapper explores themes of life, death and ambition in his freewheeling verse. —Isabela Raygoza, Billboard, 28 Feb. 2026

The instrumentation is pre-recorded, naturally. —Chris Willman, Variety, 27 Feb. 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)