Category:Instrument

In"stru*ment, n. Etym: [F. instrument, L. instrumentum. See Instruct.]

1. That by means of which any work is performed, or result is effected; a tool; a utensil; an implement; as, the instruments of a mechanic; astronomical instruments. All the lofty instruments of war. Shak.

2. A contrivance or implement, by which musical sounds are produced; as, a musical instrument. Praise him with stringed instruments and organs. Ps. cl. 4. But signs when songs and instruments he hears. Dryden.

3. (Law)

Defn: A writing, as the means of giving formal expression to some act; a writing expressive of some act, contract, process, as a deed, contract, writ, etc. Burrill.

4. One who, or that which, is made a means, or is caused to serve a purpose; a medium, means, or agent. Or useful serving man and instrument, To any sovereign state. Shak. The bold are but the instruments of the wise. Dryden.

Syn. -- Tool; implement; utensil; machine; apparatus; channel; agent.

instrument In"stru*ment, v. t.

Defn: To perform upon an instrument; to prepare for an instrument; as, a sonata instrumented for orchestra.