n. & v.
n. 1 an example or illustration of (just another instance of his lack of determination). 2 a particular case (that's not true in this instance). 3 Law a legal suit.
v.tr. cite (a fact, case, etc.) as an instance. at the instance of at the request or suggestion of. court of first instance Law a court of primary jurisdiction. for instance as an example. in the first (or second etc.) instance in the first (or second etc.) place; at the first (or second etc.) stage of a proceeding.
[ ME f. OF f. L instantia (as INSTANT) ]