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Definitions

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.

More than 50 years after humans first flew around the Moon, Artemis astronauts will repeat the feat on Monday and use the most basic instrument to study it: their eyes.

From Barron's • Apr. 5, 2026

A cartridge containing small tubes preloaded with different antibiotics is placed directly into the urine sample and inserted into an instrument.

From Science Daily • Mar. 31, 2026

"We are Near Eastern archaeologists. So that is our work. That is like a musician who can no longer play an instrument," she told AFP.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

But there’s still so much to learn about harmony and melody from that instrument, you know?

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

This may seem counterintuitive, but remember, you are basically compensating for the transposition that is "built into" the instrument.

From "Understanding Basic Music Theory" by Catherine Schmidt-Jones and Russel Jones

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.