Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
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.

The most prominent instrument on the album is its layers of vocal treatments.

From Los Angeles Times • May 8, 2026

The move requires legislation, in the form of a statutory instrument, and a short consultation is taking place this week.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

The analysis was carried out using the Sample Analysis at Mars instrument suite, known as SAM.

From Science Daily • Apr. 28, 2026

It is about what happened when a bunch of friends decided to start a band even though no one could really play an instrument.

From Salon • Apr. 28, 2026

In short, scientists say that nothing we do as humans uses more parts of our brain and is more complex than playing an instrument.

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin

Vocabulary lists containing instrument

Macbeth's "Is this a dagger..." soliloquy

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

List 3

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

John F. Kennedy, Inaugural Address, January 20, 1961

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!