v.tr.
1. (often foll. by in) teach (a person) a subject etc. (instructed her in French).
2 (usu. foll. by to + infin.) direct; command (instructed him to fill in the hole).
3 (often foll. by of, or that etc. + clause) inform (a person) of a fact etc.
4 Brit. a (of a client or solicitor) give information to (a solicitor or counsel). b authorize (a solicitor or counsel) to act for one.
Etymology: ME f. L instruere instruct- build, teach (as IN-(2), struere pile up)