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instrument

noun

Synonyms and Antonyms of instrument

1 a written or printed paper giving information about or proof of something

  • a valid will is a legal instrument
Synonyms of instrument

certificate, certification, document
Words Related to instrument

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 of instrument

device, implement, tool, utensil
Words Related to instrument

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 of instrument

agency, agent, instrumentality, machinery, means, medium, ministry, organ, vehicle
Words Related to instrument

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 of instrument

cat's-paw, lay figure, pawn, puppet, tool
Words Related to instrument

chump, dupe, foil, gull, sucker, victim

minion, stooge

lap dog, yes-man

Synonym Discussion of instrument

implement, tool, instrument, appliance, utensil mean a relatively simple device for performing work. implement may apply to anything necessary to perform a task.
    • crude stone implements
    • farm implements
tool suggests an implement adapted to facilitate a definite kind or stage of work and suggests the need of skill more strongly than implement.
    • a carpenter's tools
instrument suggests a device capable of delicate or precise work.
    • the dentist's instruments
appliance refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment.
    • household appliances
utensil applies to a device used in domestic work or some routine unskilled activity.
    • kitchen utensils

Learn More about instrument

  1. See words that rhyme with instrument Dictionary: Definition of instrument Medical Dictionary: Definition of instrument Spanish Central: Translation of instrument Nglish: Translation of instrument for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of instrument for Arabic speakers

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