instrument
UK: ˈɪnstrəmənt | US: ˈɪnstrəmənt
n. a tool or device used for a specific task, especially in science or medicine
n. a musical device played to produce sound
n. a formal legal document (e.g., contract or deed)
vt. to equip or adapt for a purpose
instrument = in<in> + stru<build> + ment<noun suffix>
- in (Latin: "in, into")
- stru (Latin: "struere," meaning "to build, arrange")
- ment (Latin: "-mentum," noun-forming suffix indicating means or result)
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin instrumentum ("tool, equipment"), combining in- (into) + struere (to build). Originally referred to tools for construction or arrangement, later expanding to include musical devices (16th c.) and legal documents (via the idea of "means to an end"). The logic reflects progression from physical tools to abstract "tools" (e.g., legal instruments).
The surgeon carefully sterilized each medical instrument before the operation.
She mastered the violin, a challenging string instrument.
The treaty served as a legal instrument for peace negotiations.
The lab was instrumented with precision measuring devices.
Ancient civilizations used simple instruments like the lyre for entertainment.