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instanced - 2 dictionary results

in⋅stance

   [in-stuhns]
noun, verb, -stanced, -stanc⋅ing.
–noun
1. a case or occurrence of anything: fresh instances of oppression.
2. an example put forth in proof or illustration: to cite a few instances.
3. Law. the institution and prosecution of a case.
4. Archaic. urgency in speech or action.
5. Obsolete. an impelling motive.
–verb (used with object)
6. to cite as an instance or example.
7. to exemplify by an instance.
–verb (used without object)
8. to cite an instance.
—Idioms
9. at the instance of, at the urging or suggestion of: He applied for the assistantship at the instance of his professor.
10. for instance, as an example; for example: If you were to go to Italy, for instance, you would get a different perspective on our culture.
Origin:
1300–50; ME < L instantia presence, urgency (ML: case, example). See instant, -ance
Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1)
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2006.
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in·stance     (ĭn'stəns)  Pronunciation Key 
n.  
    1. An example that is cited to prove or invalidate a contention or illustrate a point. See Synonyms at example.
    2. A case or an occurrence: In all such instances, let conscience be your guide.
    3. A suggestion or request: called at the instance of his attorney.
    4. Archaic Urgent solicitation.
  2. Law A legal proceeding or process; a suit.
  3. A step in a process or series of events: You should apply in the first instance to the personnel manager.
    1. A suggestion or request: called at the instance of his attorney.
    2. Archaic Urgent solicitation.
  5. Obsolete An impelling motive.

tr.v.   in·stanced, in·stanc·ing, in·stanc·es
  1. To offer as an example; cite.
  2. To demonstrate or show by an example; exemplify.


[Middle English instaunce, from Old French instance, request, instant, and from Medieval Latin īnstantia, example, both from Latin, presence, from īnstāns, īnstant-, present; see instant.]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2006 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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