Ĭn'stru-ment, n.

n. [Lat. instrumentum, Fr. & Pr. instrument, Sp. instrumento, It. instrumento, strumento, strumento. See INSTRUCT.]

1. That by which work is performed, or any thing is effected; a tool: a utensil: an implement; as, the instruments of a mechanic, astronomical instruments, and the like. “All the lofty instruments of war.” Shak.
2. A contrivance, implement, or structure by which musical sounds are produced; a musical instrument. “But sighs when songs and instruments he hears.” Dryden.
3. (Law.) A writing, as the means of giving formal expression to some act; a writing expressive of some act, contract, process, or proceeding, as a deed, contract, writ, &c. Burrill.
4. One who, or that which, is made a means, or caused to serve a purpose.

Or useful serving man and instrument To any sovereign state. Shak. The bold are but the instruments of the wise. Dryden.