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.
Phrases and idioms:
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.
Etymology: ME f. OF f. L instantia (as INSTANT)