instrument

1 a written or printed paper giving information about or proof of something a valid will is a legal instrument Synonyms certification, document, certificateRelated Words credentials; diploma, parchment; record; warrant, writ; warranty; coupon, voucher

2 an article intended for use in work always choose the right instrument for any woodworking job Synonyms device, implement, tool, utensilRelated Words apparatus, appliance, mechanism; contraption, contrivance, gadget, gizmo (also gismo), jigger; accessory (also accessary), accoutrement (or accouterment), adjunct, appendage, attachment

3 something used to achieve an end he sees scouting as an instrument for building character in young people Synonyms agency, agent, instrumentality, machinery, means, medium, ministry, organ, vehicleRelated Words determinant, expedient, factor, influence, ingredient, mechanism, tool; weapon; activator, animator, catalyst, driver, energizer, executor, generator, impetus, incentive, inspiration, instigation, instigator, launcher, mover, power, stimulus, trigger; antecedent, cause, occasion, reason; subagency, subagent

4 one that is or can be used to further the purposes of another the claim that the scientists are mere instruments of the tobacco companies, who pay them to produce findings that are highly suspect Synonyms cat's-paw, pawn, lay figure, puppet, toolRelated Words chump, dupe, foil, gull, sucker, victim; minion, stooge; lap dog, yes-man