instructs; instructed; instructing
formal
1
: to teach (someone) a subject, skill, etc.
—usually + in or on
His friend instructed him in English.
Many doctors are instructing their patients on the importance of exercise.
She instructed us on how to interpret the text.
2
a
: to give (someone) an order or command
She instructed us that we were to remain in our seats.
—usually followed by to + verbShe instructed us to remain in our seats.
—often used as (be) instructedWe were instructed to remain in our seats.
b
law
: to give an order or an explanation of a law to (a jury)
The judge instructed the jury that they should disregard the testimony of the last witness.
3
British
: to hire (a lawyer) to represent you in a legal case
She advised him to instruct a solicitor.
Cite this Entry
“Instruct.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/instruct. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.
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