Instrument Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Instrument, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Instrument?

The legal written documents as a contract, will, bond, deed or lease which has been agreed upon by the parties into the contract and have details of what one has to do and not to do when in agreement.It also refers to object that produces music.

History and Meaning of Instrument

The term "instrument" has been derived from the Latin word "instrumentum" which means "tool". In the legal context, it refers to any written document that has legal significance between two or more parties. Generally, an instrument is executed in writing, signed by the parties to it, and is enforceable by law. Examples of instruments include contracts, deeds, mortgages, powers of attorney, bills of sale, and share certificates.

In the context of music, an instrument refers to a device that produces musical sounds, such as a guitar, piano, or flute.

Examples of Instrument

  1. Mary signed an instrument that transferred ownership of her car to John.
  2. The bank required Bob to execute an instrument to secure his loan.
  3. The company issued share certificates as legal instruments to its investors.
  4. The musician played a beautiful tune on her instrument, a violin.
  5. The orchestra had a variety of instruments, including violins, cellos, trumpets, and drums.

Legal Terms Similar to Instrument

  1. Contract: An agreement made between two or more parties that creates legal obligations and is enforceable by law.
  2. Deed: A legal document that transfers ownership of property from one person to another.
  3. Bill of Sale: A written document that transfers ownership of personal property from one person to another.
  4. Mortgage: A legal agreement in which a lender agrees to loan money to a borrower for the purpose of purchasing real estate, with the real estate serving as collateral for the loan.
  5. Power of Attorney: A legal document that gives one person the power to act on behalf of another person in legal matters.