ˈɪnstrumənt n. & v. --n. 1 a
tool or
implement,
esp.
for delicate or
scientific work. 2 (in full
musical instrument) a
device for producing musical sounds by
vibration, wind,
percussion, etc. 3 a a
thing used in performing an
action (the
meeting was an instrument in
his success). b a
person made use of (is merely
their instrument). 4 a measuring-device, esp. in an
aeroplane,
serving to
determine its position in darkness etc. 5 a
formal, esp.
legal,
document. --v.tr. 1
arrange (music) for instruments. 2
equip with instruments (for measuring,
recording, controlling, etc.). øinstrument
board (or panel) a
surface, esp. in a
car or aeroplane, containing
the dials etc. of measuring-devices. [ME f. OF instrument or L instrumentum (as INSTRUCT)]