instrument
in·stru·ment / ˈinstrəmənt/ • n. 1. a tool or implement, esp. one for delicate or scientific work: a surgical instrument writing instruments. ∎ a thing used in pursuing an aim or policy; a means: drama as an instrument of learning. ∎ a person who is exploited or made use of: he was a mere instrument acting under coercion.2. a measuring device used to gauge the level, position, speed, etc., of something, esp. a motor vehicle or aircraft.3. (also musical instrument) an object or device for producing musical sounds: a percussion instrument.4. a formal document, esp. a legal one: execution involves signature and unconditional delivery of the instrument.• v. [tr.] equip (something) with measuring instruments.
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instrument
