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

Callahan’s baritone is rich and full, but the rest of the instrumentation feels insipid. —PC Magazine, 29 July 2025

This barnstorming, fervent rock instrumentation, spearheaded by Authur’s burly voice, melds to create a surefire crowd pleaser. —Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 28 July 2025

Both artists sing on the album, their celestial voices braiding in with delicate instrumentation. —Madison Bloom, Pitchfork, 18 July 2025

The eight-track album features the accompaniment of a symphony-style orchestra, gospel choir and swampy, rock-style instrumentation. —Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025

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)