instrument

/ˈɪnstɹəmənt/

noun

  1. 1

    A device used to produce music.

    The violinist was a master of her instrument.
  2. 2

    A means or agency for achieving an effect.

  3. 3

    A measuring or displaying device.

    The instrument detected an increase in radioactivity.
  4. 4

    A tool, implement used for manipulation or measurement.

    The dentist set down his tray of instruments.
  5. 5

    A legal document, such as a contract, deed, trust, mortgage, power, indenture, or will.

    A bond indenture is the instrument that gives a bond its value.
  6. 6

    A person used as a mere tool for achieving a goal.

verb

  1. 1

    To apply measuring devices.

  2. 2

    To devise, conceive, cook up, plan.

  3. 3

    To perform upon an instrument; to prepare for an instrument.

    a sonata instrumented for orchestra

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