All the lofty instruments of war. --Shak.
2. A contrivance or implement, by which musical sounds are
produced; as, a musical instrument.
Praise him with stringed instruments and organs.
--Ps. cl. 4.
But signs 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, as a deed, contract, writ, etc. --Burrill.
4. One who, or that which, is made a means, or is caused to
serve a purpose; a medium, means, or agent.
Or useful serving man and instrument, To any
sovereign state. --Shak.
The bold are but the instruments of the wise.
--Dryden.
Syn: Tool; implement; utensil; machine; apparatus; channel;
agent.