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instrument

[in-struh-muhnt] / ˈɪn strə mənt /




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 10 largest investment exposures the firm reported in the first quarter of this year included a private-credit instrument managed by alternative-asset giant TPG.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

"There was no instrument in the room. He used a wooden table as a percussion instrument and sang. But the producer was impressed," says Amaran.

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026

Teddy Thompson’s voice is a golden, vivid instrument capable of conjuring joy and caverns of heartache.

From Salon • Jun. 5, 2026

We recorded a tumbadero, which is an instrument used in plena, recorded by Luis “Lagarto” Figueroa.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

The haunting notes didn’t resemble an organ, a piano, a fiddle, or any instrument of this world.

From "The Seven Wonders of Sassafras Springs" by Betty G. Birney




Vocabulary lists containing instrument


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