1. That by means of which any work is performed, or result is effected;
a tool; a utensil; an implement; as, the instruments of a mechanic;
astronomical instruments.
All the lofty instruments of war.
Shak.
2. A contrivance or implement, by which musical sounds are produced;
as, a musical instrument.
Praise him with stringed instruments and organs.
Ps. cl. 4.
But signs when songs and instruments he hears.
Dryden.
3. (Law) A writing, as the means of giving formal expression to some
act; a writing expressive of some act, contract, process, as a deed,
contract, writ, etc. Burrill.
4. One who, or that which, is made a means, or is caused to serve a
purpose; a medium, means, or agent.
Or useful serving man and instrument, To any sovereign state.
Shak.
The bold are but the instruments of the wise.
Dryden.
Syn. -- Tool; implement; utensil; machine; apparatus; channel; agent.
In"stru*ment (?), v. t. To perform upon an instrument; to prepare for
an instrument; as, a sonata instrumented for orchestra.