instrument

[in-struh-muhnt] / ˈɪn strə mənt /

NOUN

tool, implement

Synonyms

STRONGEST

apparatus appliance device equipment gadget gear gizmo machine machinery mechanism

STRONG

contraption contrivance doodad paraphernalia tackle utensil

Antonyms

WEAK

end

NOUN

means, agent

Synonyms

STRONGEST

material mechanism medium organ vehicle

STRONG

agency channel factor force instrumentality ministry wherewithal

Antonyms

WEAK

end

Usage

What are other ways to say instrument? An instrument is anything used in doing a certain type of work or producing a certain result, especially such as requires delicacy, accuracy, or precision: surgical or musical instruments. A tool is a contrivance held in and worked by the hand, for assisting the work of (especially) mechanics or skilled laborers: a carpenter's tools. An implement is any tool or contrivance designed or used for a particular purpose: agricultural implements. A utensil is especially an article for domestic use: kitchen utensils.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

An ancient string instrument evolved into the flat-top acoustic guitar—an essential element in American folk, blues and rock.

From The Wall Street Journal

In “The Devil Is in It,” John Stubbings explores the history behind the history of the steel-string flat-top acoustic guitar—“the people’s instrument,” as he calls it.

From The Wall Street Journal

The movie is a powerfully blunt instrument of empathy.

From Los Angeles Times

“I grab instruments a lot, but now I had to learn all these songs and rehearse them,” Webb says.

From Los Angeles Times

The $700-billion reinsurance industry also relies on the center’s data, tools and climate models to create financial instruments, such as catastrophe bonds, that are directly tied to weather or natural disaster risks.

From Los Angeles Times

instrument

Usage

Example Sentences

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