Dictionary
Find
in
Dictionary
Thesaurus
Translations

Click to move up the list of words
instate
instauration
instead
instep
instep crampon
instigate
instill
instinct
instinctive
institute
institution
institutional advertising
institutional bilingualism
institutional investor
institutionalise
institutionalism
institutionalize
Click to move down the list of words
Also available:

World English Dictionary
Dictionnaire Français

instrument

in·stru·ment [ ínstrəmənt ]


noun  (plural in·stru·ments)
Definition:
 
1. tool: a tool or mechanical device, especially one used for precision work in science, medicine, or technology

2. music object that produces music: an object used to produce music, e.g. a flute, guitar, or drum

3. measurements measuring device: a device that measures or controls something, e.g. a speedometer or voltmeter

4. means of doing something: somebody or something used as a means of achieving a desired result or accomplishing a particular purpose
They view standardized testing as an instrument for improving the schools.

5. object used for purpose: an object that has been or could be used for a purpose
hit by a blunt instrument

6. law document: a legal document ( formal )



transitive verb  (past and past participle in·stru·ment·ed, present participle in·stru·ment·ing, 3rd person present singular in·stru·ments)
Definition:
 
1.  [ ínstrə mènt ] music arrange music: to write or arrange a piece of music for performance on musical instruments

2. measurements supply with measuring devices: to equip something with instruments for measurement or control

[13th century. Via French< Latin instrumentum< instruere "prepare" (see instruct)]
Advertisement

© 2009 Microsoft