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

Daedal ultimately aims to become an instrumentation provider for commercial fusion power, supplying measurement hardware and services as reactors move from experimental machines toward operating power systems. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 29 Sep. 2026

Buoyant instrumentation and a highly singable chorus create an infectious momentum, even as the lyrics reveal the vulnerability behind the celebration. — Qygwork, Billboard, 28 Sep. 2026

While Gutenberg and Richter focused primarily on theory, Benioff concentrated on instrumentation. — Danny Robb, JSTOR Daily, 25 Sep. 2026

The instantly recognizable alt-rock group, whose lead instrumentation included baritone sax and two-string fretless bass, disbanded after the 1999 death of vocalist-bassist Mark Sandman. — Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 24 Sep. 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)