Instrument

/ˈɪnstrʊmənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A tool or device used for a particular purpose, especially for carrying out specific tasks or actions.

The surgeon used a scalpel as the primary instrument during the operation.

A musical device that produces sound, especially a piece of equipment used to play music.

She plays several instruments, including the piano and the violin.

A means or agency by which something is done or achieved.

The teacher is an important instrument in the education of children.

A legal document, especially one that has a formal role in a transaction or agreement.

The contract was an instrument that bound both parties to the terms of the agreement.

verb

To perform surgery or medical procedures using instruments.

The doctor instrumented the patient’s heart surgery successfully.

To equip or furnish with instruments, especially for measurement or control.

The engineers instrumented the building to monitor for seismic activity.

From Latin 'instrumentum', meaning 'a tool or device'.

musical instrument:

A device created for producing music.

measuring instrument:

A tool used to measure physical quantities.

instrument panel:

A dashboard that displays essential instruments in a vehicle or aircraft.

A tool used for something, often in a casual context.

He's got all the right instruments for fixing that car.

Refers to someone skilled with a musical instrument.

She's a real instrument when it comes to playing the piano.