Instrument \In"stru*ment\, n. [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) 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.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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