instrumentation

noun

in·​stru·​men·​ta·​tion ˌin(t)-strə-mən-ˈtā-shən 

-ˌmen-

1

: the arrangement or composition of music for instruments especially for a band or orchestra

2

: the use or application of instruments (as for observation, measurement, or control)

3

: instruments for a particular purpose

also : a selection or arrangement of instruments

Examples of instrumentation in a Sentence

There was a problem with the airplane's instrumentation.

Recent Examples on the Web

Uncle Snoop appreciated that Jeremy had taken his time and used his instrument — that is, his voice — as a complement to the actual instrumentation. —Charlie Mason, TVLine, 9 Dec. 2024

The 15 tracks are classic Rüfüs: dreamy and delicate, occasionally dark and full of longing, but never overtly challenging, and altogether built from as much analog as electronic instrumentation. —Katie Bain, Billboard, 14 Oct. 2024

While the songs’ premises may sound ridiculous, Vail’s airtight instrumentation and sharp melodies have given him the reputation of creating bops out of thin air. —Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 16 Sep. 2024

All instrumentation is digital, with a 9.2in display behind the steering wheel offering useful information. —James Morris, Forbes, 29 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1818, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

instrumentation

noun

in·​stru·​men·​ta·​tion ˌin(t)-strə-mən-ˈtā-shən 

-ˌmen-

1

: the arrangement or composition of music for instruments

2

: instruments for a particular purpose

the instrumentation of an aircraft

Medical Definition

instrumentation

noun

in·​stru·​men·​ta·​tion ˌin(t)-strə-mən-ˈtā-shən, -ˌmen- 

: a use of or operation with instruments

especially : the use of one or more instruments in treating a patient (as in the passing of a cystoscope)