instrument
1. [ noun ] a device that requires skill for proper use
Related terms: device weapon whip musical_instrument analyzer surveying_instrument measuring_instrument instrument_of_punishment sonograph medical_instrument drafting_instrument navigational_instrument optical_instrument extractor scientific_instrument plotter instrument_of_execution tracer cautery camera_lucida
2. [ noun ] the means whereby some act is accomplished
Synonyms: tool
Examples:

"my greed was the instrument of my destruction" "science has given us new tools to fight disease"

Related terms: means
3. [ noun ] (work) a person used by another to gain an end
Synonyms: cat's-paw pawn
Related terms: assistant
4. [ verb ] address a legal document to
Related terms: address legal_document
5. [ verb ] (music) write an instrumental score for
Synonyms: instrumentate
Related terms: compose music orchestration
6. [ noun ] (grammar) the semantic role of the entity (usually inanimate) that the agent uses to perform an action or start a process
Synonyms: instrumental_role
Related terms: participant_role
7. [ noun ] (music) any of various devices or contrivances that can be used to produce musical tones or sounds
Synonyms: musical_instrument
Related terms: device percussion_instrument celesta stringed_instrument bass electronic_instrument music_box Jew's_harp calliope wind_instrument barrel_organ
8. [ verb ] equip with instruments for measuring, recording, or controlling
Related terms: equip
9. [ noun ] (writing) a document that states some contractual relationship or grants some right
Synonyms: legal_instrument official_document legal_document
Related terms: document bill security act judgment tax_return law license will mandate indictment assignment warrant writ brief deed working_papers deposition impeachment living_will power_of_attorney trust_deed letters_of_administration passport conveyance ship's_papers derivative_instrument patent acquittance manifest letters_testamentary written_agreement debenture arraignment negotiable_instrument law
Similar spelling:   instrumental
  instrumentate
  instalment
  instilment
  instruct
  installment
  instillment
  institute
  instructor
  instructed
  in-situ
  in_situ
  instruction
  instructive
  instroke
  institution
  instructions
  instructress
  instructional
  instructively
  incitement
  in_stride
  institutional