instrument (instruments plural )
1 n-count An instrument is a tool or device that is used to do a particular task, especially a scientific task.
usu with supp
...instruments for cleaning and polishing teeth..., The environment itself will at the same time be measured by about 60 scientific instruments.
2 n-count A musical instrument is an object such as a piano, guitar, or flute, which you play in order to produce music.
oft supp N
Learning a musical instrument introduces a child to an understanding of music.
3 n-count An instrument is a device that is used for making measurements of something such as speed, height, or sound, for example on a ship or plane or in a car.
oft supp N
...crucial instruments on the control panel.
4 n-count Something that is an instrument for achieving a particular aim is used by people to achieve that aim.
oft N of n
The veto has been a traditional instrument of diplomacy for centuries.
5 →
stringed instrument →
wind instrument
instrument panel (instrument panels plural )The instrument panel of a plane, car, or machine is the panel where the dials and switches are located. n-count
musical instrument (musical instruments plural )A musical instrument is an object such as a piano, guitar, or violin which you play in order to produce music. n-count
(=instrument)
The drum is one of the oldest musical instruments.
stringed instrument (stringed instruments plural )A stringed instrument is a musical instrument that has strings, such as a violin or a guitar. n-count
wind instrument (wind instruments plural )A wind instrument is a musical instrument that you blow into in order to produce sounds, such as a flute, a clarinet, or a recorder. n-count
