I. ˈin(t)-strə-mənt noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin instrumentum, from instruere to arrange, instruct
Date: 14th century
1. : a device used to produce music ; also : a singing voice
2.
a. : a means whereby something is achieved, performed, or furthered
b. : one used by another as a means or aid : dupe , tool
3. : implement ; especially : one designed for precision work
4. : a formal legal document (as a deed, bond, or agreement)
5.
a. : a measuring device for determining the present value of a quantity under observation
b. : an electrical or mechanical device used in navigating an airplane ; especially : such a device used as the sole means of navigating
Synonyms: see implement
II. -ˌment transitive verb
Date: 1752
1. : to address a legal instrument to
2. : to score for musical performance : orchestrate
3. : to equip with instruments especially for measuring and recording data
an instrument ed spacecraft