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instrument

instrument


in·stru·ment    Audio Help   (ĭn'strə-mənt)   

n.  

  1. A means by which something is done; an agency.

  2. One used by another to accomplish a purpose; a dupe.

  3. An implement used to facilitate work. See Synonyms at tool.

  4. A device for recording, measuring, or controlling, especially such a device functioning as part of a control system.

  5. Music A device for playing or producing music: a keyboard instrument.

  6. A legal document, such as a deed, will, mortgage, or insurance policy.

tr.v.   (-měnt') in·stru·ment·ed, in·stru·ment·ing, in·stru·ments

  1. To provide or equip with instruments.

  2. Music To compose or arrange for performance.

  3. To address a legal document to.


[Middle English, from Old French, from Latin īnstrūmentum, tool, implement, from īnstruere, to prepare; see instruct.]
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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
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